Transform Your World: 12 Must-Read Books for a Just and Sustainable Future

For February, Yale Climate Connections showcases impactful reads that align with climate activism and Black History Month. The first title, “People the Planet Needs Now,” introduces us to 25 inspiring scientists and activists advocating for their communities amid climate change.

Next up are two important memoirs: one from Catherine Coleman Flowers and another classic by Robert Bullard and Beverly Wright. Their works help us understand the historical context of environmental justice and lead us to the evolving concept of climate justice.

Among the newer titles, “Climate Justice” by legal scholar Cass Sunstein stands out. He discusses moral responsibilities in addressing climate change and emphasizes that wealthy nations owe support to poorer countries disproportionately affected. His ideas are echoed in “Not Just White, Not Just Green” and “Climate Justice and the University,” which dive deeper into environmental history and the role of academic institutions in promoting justice.

On the horizon of critical social studies, there are new books exploring “land power” and climate activism in places like the Caribbean and New York City’s Alphabet City. These stories shed light on the intricate connections between land ownership, power dynamics, and environmental struggles.

This month also features fresh climate fiction. Two standout novels have made the long list for the inaugural Climate Fiction Prize—the winner will be revealed next month. Check out the new collection of Afrofuturist stories and the latest works from East African and Indigenous Australian authors for a thrilling look at speculative futures.

Here’s a brief look at some of the key titles:

• People the Planet Needs Now by Dudley Edmundson explores voices of Black and Brown activists pushing for global change.
• Holy Ground by Catherine Coleman Flowers shares personal insights and her mission for environmental justice.
• The Wrong Complexion for Protection by Robert D. Bullard and Beverly Wright assesses the racial disparities in disaster response.
• Not Just Green, Not Just White redefines environmental history’s narrative.
• Climate Justice by Cass Sunstein advocates for accountability from wealthier nations regarding climate impacts.
• Land Power by Michael Albertus argues that land ownership shapes societal outcomes.
• Dark Laboratory by Tao Leigh Goffe discusses colonial history’s impact on climate issues.
• The Church of Stop Shopping by George Gonzalez examines how performance art fights climate change and consumerism.
• The Black Fantastic: 20 Afrofuturist Stories features diverse voices redefining speculative fiction.
• Water Baby by Chioma Okereke follows a young girl navigating dreams beyond her slum in Lagos.
• Praiseworthy by Alexis Wright blends ecological themes with the quest for identity in Australia.

This curated selection highlights diverse perspectives on climate justice and activism. These stories not only inform but also inspire readers to reflect on our planet’s future and our roles in fostering change.

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climate justice,Michael Svoboda