‘The People in the Trees’ by Hanya Yanagihara

‘The People in the Trees’ by Hanya Yanagihara is the author’s debut novel, but the last one I’ve read. And like her later works, it’s a deeply complex and thought-provoking read.

Norton Perina, fresh out of medical school, embarks on an expedition to the remote island of Ivu’ivu with anthropologist Paul Tallent. While Paul focuses on studying a 'lost tribe,' Norton makes a discovery that promises to revolutionize medical science and challenge ethical boundaries.

Presented as a memoir edited by Norton’s colleague and friend Ronald Kubodera, the narrative is delivered through Norton’s unreliable and often unsettling perspective. His arrogance and morally ambiguous actions force readers to grapple with difficult questions about science, colonialism, and human nature.

This book is not an easy read, but it is compelling and provocative—highly recommended for those ready to engage with its challenging themes.

CW: child abuse (sexual, physical, emotional), racism, misogyny, ethical violations