by Judith Curry
Two exciting new books on climate fiction (Cli-fi), with zero themes.
You may recall the first two posts at CE on Cli-fi [link] [link]; These posts helped popularize the term. Almost exactly 10 years since my first post, Cli-fi has come a long way, with comprehensive development Wikipedia Page. Some recent featured Cli-fi book lists:
The cause of this particular post is that a few weeks ago the authors of two new books emailed me with copies of their books. What particularly struck me was that these two books were both based on the theme of net zero emissions. In fact, they identify a new sub-genre of Cli-fi: how no-nonsense fiction regarding the rapid phasing out of fossil fuels has become such a serious problem. Both books address the skeptical scientists’ intent to make a difference in the face of overwhelming odds. The moral of these stories is that a rapid transition to net zero emissions will do more harm than CO2 emissions themselves.
This topic couldn’t be more timely.
Winter Games, by the church Daniel
Daniel Church is a nom de plume, I don’t know his real name, but it is clear that he spent a lot of time in academia and is knowledgeable in geology/geophysics.
From the above summary amazon.com
“Daniel Church’s thriller is certainly in the Michael Crichton tradition. Winter Games introduces readers to a group of passionate scientists who sacrifice themselves to save millions of helpless humans threatened by the cold. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that a PR guru is behind many of the public’s misperceptions about climate and, therefore, much suffering. The question is whether he is too strong to be defeated.”
Plot and setting: It’s 2027, and desperate climate scientists are videotaping their deaths in rooms kept at Earth’s average temperature—59 degrees Fahrenheit (with a little fan-generated wind)—in an effort to convey some simple truths about science, and to protect vulnerable people from the ravages of fuel poverty. The climactic scene, at NASA GISS in New York City (with a guest appearance from the famous Tom’s Restaurant of Seinfeld), is unexpected and shocking.
I was invited to write an introduction to the book: “Provocative and timely, Winter Games Brings to life the threats of poverty and fuel cold in a thrilling fashion.
The book is brilliantly written, a literary thriller albeit fast paced. Church knows well what he is talking about when it comes to the science involved. An exceptionally well crafted book. This is a pretty short read, I predict that you’ll read it in one go and not put it down until you’ve finished reading it.
Note: this book is currently available in paperback only; Electronic version coming soon
Poorly Zeroed: A Net Zero Travesty, by John M. Cape
John Cape is a graduate of Stanford Business School and the United States Military Academy at West Point, and is a professional engineer and registered energy consultant.
Are from Amazon.com:
Seeking to decarbonize rapidly, the United States hastened to abandon fossil fuels with predictable consequences. It is the year 2032 and some climate skeptics try to reveal that there is little justification for the Net Zero Policy. The government doesn’t want its citizens to know that their life-changing sacrifices are not justified. Unconcerned with the more dire climate risks, the wealthy elite steer what remains of the country toward a primitive future where humanity would be unprepared to avoid extinction. Is there any other way? Can our hero and his friends find it in time?”
Notes from the author:
INTRODUCTION TITLE:
“The sights of rifles can generally be adjusted to allow them to hit the target. When correctly set for a specific user, that weapon will be zero. Something that is not poorly defined and addressed properly will miss the mark. Now, if the goal is to make us poor. Then a well-tuned weapon that hits its target can also be considered bad.”
ABOUT THE STORY:
“This book is grounded in hard science and speculates on how far things could go if current trends continue. Think of it as an energetic version of the Humble Proposal. This novel is not masquerading as something indistinguishable from the real world. We don’t want the events described here ever to happen and the fact that they are going well should be a good wake-up call that things have gone far enough. If not, read this book and put yourself in the shoes of these characters dealing with disturbing changes.”
This book is a bit longer, it includes charts and references. Two climate skeptics meet at a climate science training camp and share their insights on climate science, IPCC misconduct, and the consequences of Net Zero Policy while falling in love . Meanwhile, a progressive family with relatives from China compare notes and work together to survive and overcome challenges. All struggled to get through without much mobility or backup power. The book is less about refuting climate science than coming to terms with those who control the story.
JC reflex
I find it interesting to witness the emergence of the net zero genre in fiction. A dark future in the near future regarding the dismantling of our energy infrastructure seems to be taking place in Europe today; look 5-10 years ahead and we could be in a really bad place where the impact of increased CO2 seems trivial.
Two great books to read during the dreary winter solstice or when traveling during the holidays. Not to mention a great last minute Christmas present.
Related
