Earth is the latest novel by bestselling author John Boyne. John Boyne is perhaps best known for writing The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas, however he is also the author of The Heart’s Invisible Furies, one of my favourite books of all time.
Earth was published on 18th April 2024 and is the second book from a series of four that will make up The Elements. Water was published in November 2023, Fire is due to published in November 2024 and Air is due in May 2025.
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Plot
This book explores the story of Evan Keogh, a talented footballer struggling with his true identity. Having left his artistic aspirations behind, Evan navigates the world of professional football, a sport where homosexuality is not widely accepted.
Now facing a sexual assault charge along with a teammate, Evan reflects on the events leading to this moment. The trial becomes a catalyst for him to confront the choices he made and decide whether the life he built aligns with his true self.
Earth by John Boyne Book Review
With only 160 pages in the hardback copy, Earth is a short but powerful read. The book is both gritty and authentic, with moments that are heartbreaking and raw.
Evan is a believable character, flawed and self-centred with the world at his feet. We see a young man with potential for kindness and sensitivity, yet also capable of cruelty. At times I felt sorry for him, seeing him as a victim himself, while other times I was so angry at his actions. This complexity makes Evan a fascinating, if frustrating, character.
I found the courtroom scenes interesting yet infuriating. The way the defence lawyer attacks the character of the rape victim is enraging and sadly realistic. You do get a real sense of the guilt Evan feels and the author uses this to explore themes of morality and conscience.
Before reading the book I did question the relevance of the title, Earth, but the use of the metaphor becomes more clear as you read the book. The imagery of earth is woven throughout the book, from the soil of his home island to the dirty mud of the football field, reflecting Evan’s journey and the secrets and truths buried along the way.
Ultimately, Earth is a story about choice, accountability and the burden of shame. John Boyne captures the inner struggles of a young man trying to balance his public image with his private reality, making it a compelling and thought-provoking read.
What should I read after Earth by John Boyne?
If you haven’t already, I’d recommend reading the first book in the series, Water. Evan is actually a minor character in Water so that would be a good place to start.
As ever, I highly recommend The Heart’s Invisible Furies by John Boyne. It’s a much longer read but it’s absolutely brilliant.