Urgent message from a hot planet Navigating the climate crisis

Rather than employ the oft-used term climate change, Eriksson calls out this global impact for what it is: a climate crisis. In this comprehensive overview, she also doesn't shy away from the truth: "It's real. It's now. It's bad." Beginning with an introduction to global heating and climate science, the text features longer chapters comprised of short sections for easier comprehension. It progresses to a detailed look at the consequences of global heating and the causes of the climate crisis, with an emphasis on ecological destruction and inequity, particularly of marginalized people. The author's personal reflections, writings and art by concerned teens, photos that reflect both the climate crisis and activists in action, and brightly colored graphics add to the accessibility and relevancy. To alleviate any mounting eco-anxiety and counter the doom-and-gloom subject matter, Eriksson dedicates the last chapters to changemakers (including numerous Indigenous youth activists and Indigenous-led organizations), overarching solutions to the climate crisis, and ways ordinary citizens can make a difference. For young readers who want a deeper understanding of the climate crisis.

Gr 8 Up--Canadian biologist and writer Eriksson applies her scientific knowledge and careful research, including references to international programs, experts, and youth activists from around the world, to define the global climate crisis and expressively promote a resounding call to action. Filled with vital information and sobering perspectives about the human causes and multifaceted, worldwide consequences of the climate crisis, Eriksson's book connects readers with threads from scientific, economic, environmental, and sociological fields of knowledge. It explains the current state of the Earth and the impact that present and future action, as well as inaction, has on climate change. The author's invested, first-person narrative voice both prompts and steadies readers' immersion into these complexities, and they will linger over the illuminating, relatable stories and works by teen environmental activists. A unique segment of the book includes content that seeks to reassure readers who may carry a sense of restless helplessness in the face of the crisis, with a proactive outlook that knowledge is power. There is also an emphasis on community participation and a revived respect for nature as an integral step to invoking meaningful solutions to cope with and resolve this ever-present, global change. The text includes photographs and diverse illustrated characters, a few very clear infographics, a glossary, lists of print and online resources, photo credits, and an index. VERDICT A compelling call to action, with equally compassionate advice for those who view the crisis with despair, this book offers clear-cut explanations and international perspectives that will prove eye-opening. Reccomended for teens looking for facts about climate change or for those who understand the consequences already and are committed to environmental activism.--Rachel Mulligan

A call to action that is both sobering and hopeful. Biologist and science writer Eriksson outlines the three major problems that contribute to the climate crisis: "global heating, ecological destruction, and inequality." She conveys unvarnished facts about the climate crisis from reputable sources along with their causes and how societies can prepare for natural disasters, disruptions to the global food supply, mass population displacement, and armed conflicts. Eriksson makes an impassioned case for young people to take action to cultivate hope and fend off despair. Along the way, she shares inspirational stories and words of wisdom from interviews with activists and changemakers from around the world. The book concludes with eco-anxiety self-care suggestions. An intimate relationship between author and readers is created through the accessible first-person narrative that makes space for emotions as well as scientific facts and figures. The layout is crisp and inviting, with color photographs and graphic design illustrations with speech bubbles and bold color. Artwork and writing by youth from all over the world are spotlighted throughout. The disproportionate impact on vulnerable populations is emphasized, with the work of Indigenous activists and organizations being championed and the need to "unite with and learn from Indigenous peoples" cited as vitally important. Only solutions that meet the needs of both equity and ecology are presented as truly viable in the fight for climate justice. A well-researched and emotionally impactful call to make choices that revitalize nature and our planet. (glossary, resources, photo credits, index) (Nonfiction. 12-18) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.