5 books to read written by Matt Haig if you liked The Radleys

The Radleys is a 2024 British comedy horror film directed by Euros Lyn and is based on Matt Haig’s 2010 novel of the same name. Starring Damian Lewis, Kelly Macdonald, and Jay Lycurgo, the film brings to life the quirky and darkly humorous story of a suburban vampire family trying to blend in with ordinary humans.

Premiering at the 2024 Edinburgh International Film Festival, The Radleys has already garnered attention for its witty take on family dynamics, secrecy, and the struggle to fit in. The film is set to be released on October 18, 2024, and will also be available on Sky Cinema the same day.

Like the film, Matt Haig’s other works delve into the complexities of identity, family, and the human (or, in this case, supernatural) condition. If The Radleys left viewers wanting more of Haig’s signature mix of humor, philosophical insight, and emotional depth, several of his other books with similar themes would make excellent additions to a reading list.

Disclaimer: This article reflects the writer's opinion.

Exploring 5 more books by The Radleys author Matt Haig

1) The Midnight Library (2020)

The Midnight Library is one of Matt Haig’s most widely acclaimed novels. A heartwarming and thought-provoking story like The Radleys, the book mixes existential themes with an element of fantasy. The story centers on Nora Seed, a woman who feels she has reached the end of her rope and attempts suicide.

She awakens in a mysterious library where every book represents a different life she could have lived based on her choices. In this magical space, Nora has the chance to explore alternate versions of her existence, contemplating paths not taken and the regrets she harbors.

This novel mediates regret, mental health, and the value of life. Its central themes of choices, identity, and the power of self-acceptance are explored in a way that resonates with the darkly comedic and thoughtful tones present in The Radleys. Viewers drawn to the familial and emotional struggles in The Radleys will likely appreciate the depth of Nora’s journey in The Midnight Library

2) How to Stop Time (2017)

For fans of The Radleys’ exploration of supernatural themes alongside everyday life, How to Stop Time offers a compelling follow-up. This novel follows Tom Hazard, who appears to be in his forties but has lived for centuries due to a rare condition that slows his aging.

Throughout his extended life, Tom struggles with loneliness, loss, and the burden of keeping his secret. He’s lived through different eras of history, encountered famous figures, and yet longs for a normal life.

How to Stop Time explores themes of immortality, identity, and love, much like The Radleys dives into the complexities of living as vampires trying to fit into normal suburban life. The protagonist's internal conflict mirrors the Radley family’s attempt to reconcile their true nature with their desire to belong.

3) The Comfort Book (2021)

While The Comfort Book is non-fiction, it’s essential for anyone who connects with Haig’s exploration of mental health and existential themes. It’s a collection of uplifting and reflective essays, quotes, and personal stories that offer solace and reassurance for tough times.

Written with Haig’s signature empathy and understanding, this book is a companion to readers facing personal struggles or existential doubts.

Though the novel doesn’t have the supernatural element of The Radleys, The Comfort Book touches on many of the same emotional and philosophical themes. Haig’s reflections on the human condition, mental resilience, and the search for meaning provide the same emotional depth found in his fictional works.

4) The Humans (2013)

The Humans is a fitting follow-up to The Radleys for readers who enjoyed Haig’s humorous yet poignant exploration of what it means to be human. The novel tells the story of an alien sent to Earth to destroy evidence of a mathematical breakthrough.

The alien inhabits the body of Professor Andrew Martin and is baffled by human behavior, which he initially finds illogical and repulsive. However, as he spends more time living among humans, particularly with Andrew’s family, he begins to appreciate the complexity, beauty, and messiness of human existence.

The Humans uses an outsider’s perspective to examine the intricacies of family life and relationships. The novel is funny and touching, offering insights into love, loneliness, and the human condition.

5) The Last Family in England (2004)

The Last Family in England (Image Via Amazon)

The Last Family is narrated by a dog and gives a unique take on family dynamics; The book is a reimagining of Shakespeare’s Henry IV, Part 1, set in modern-day England. The book is from the perspective of Prince, a Labrador tasked with keeping his family together as their lives begin to fall apart.

While this novel came out before The Radleys, it shares Haig’s trademark blend of dark humor, wit, and emotional depth. The family drama at its core, with Prince’s loyalty and love for his humans, adds an unexpected layer of warmth to the story.

Matt Haig’s books often revolve around existential questions, emotions, and how humans navigate life’s complexities, whether through a supernatural lens or more grounded, personal narratives. These books stand as a prime example of how Haig uses fantasy elements to delve into everyday struggles.

Edited by Rachith Rao