THE THINNING BY INGA SIMPSON, LONGLISTED FOR STELLA PRIZE 2025

The word "Thinning" symbolizes the dwindling of forests, the extinction of species, and overall environmental decline. Inga Simpson’s novel paints a haunting picture of a world grappling with the consequences of ecological destruction.

Fin, our protagonist, and her mother, Dianella—an astrophotographer—are always on the move, constantly alert and ready to run. During their journey, Fin encounters Terry, an "Incomplete"—a different breed of human. Together, they set out on a quest to witness a solar eclipse. Before they part ways, Fin’s mother gives her a bright orange watch, synchronized with her own, counting down the moments until the eclipse.

Set in a post-apocalyptic world, the novel is more than just a survival story—it serves as an eye-opener to pressing environmental issues such as pollution, deforestation, and the loss of biodiversity. The narrative moves fluidly between the present and the past, offering glimpses into Fin’s childhood. In the world they inhabit, the reefs are dead, and koalas are extinct, underscoring the devastating impact of human actions on nature.

As a sci-fi dystopian novel, The Thinning touches on themes of fertility and survival, reminiscent of The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood. One of the most captivating aspects of the book is Fin’s observations about different bird species and rare creatures, such as the pink slug, which is found only on Mount Kaputar in Australia.

Though Simpson paints a bleak vision of the future, her novel serves as a stark reminder of the environmental crisis unfolding in our world today. It highlights not only the havoc we wreak on Earth but also the troubling reality that humanity’s reach extends beyond our planet, threatening even outer space.

With its accessible prose and profound message, The Thinning is a compelling read—both a cautionary tale and a call to action. A must-read for those who appreciate thought-provoking, environmentally conscious literature.