Invisible Things: A Novel by Mat Johnson

Invisible Things: A Novel

by Mat Johnson

Extended Synopsis

In Invisible Things, sociologist Nalini Jackson joins the first manned mission to Jupiter, only to discover New Roanoke: a fully functioning human city encased in a bubble on the moon Europa. Nalini and her crew are promptly abducted into this captive population, finding a society that serves as a dark mirror of Earth—riven by extreme wealth inequality, predatory elites, and mindless consumption.

The city is terrorized by an "invisible" force that no citizen dares to acknowledge, serving as a powerful allegory for modern mass denialism. Intertwined with Nalini's story is that of Chase Eubanks, an Albuquerque chauffeur convinced aliens stole his wife. As a rescue mission attempts to provide the technology needed for escape, the plan is complicated by the contradictory impulses of the abductees themselves. Mat Johnson delivers a madcap, surreal adventure that questions whether humanity can survive its own crises of truth.

Reader Targeting

• Literary Satire Fans: Readers who enjoy social commentary wrapped in surreal, imaginative plots.
• Sci-Fi Aficionados: Those interested in "Jovian mirror worlds" and the exploration of alien civilizations.
• Political Observers: Individuals looking for allegorical takes on modern polarized politics and wealth inequality.

Accolades & Awards

• Longlisted for the PEN/Faulkner Award.
• Named One of the Best Books of the Year by The Washington Post.

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