Books matching: ecological disaster
72 result(s)
- #1
In 'Timescape' by Gregory Benford, scientists in the late 1990s are facing global environmental catastrophes and attempt to send messages back in time to prevent the disasters. Meanwhile, in the early 1960s, a scientist discovers a mysterious message from the future hidden in his experimental data. The book delves into the themes of time travel, ecological collapse, and the challenges faced by scientists in different timelines. The writing style alternates between past and present settings, showcasing detailed scientific discussions and character-driven plotlines.
REMEMBER TO SMILE A LOT, JOHN RENFREW thought moodily. People seemed to like that. They never wondered why you kept on smiling, no matter what was said. It was a kind of general sign of good will, he ... - #2
In "Fuzzy Mud" by Louis Sachar, fifth grader Tamaya and seventh grader Marshall find themselves in a dangerous situation after taking a shortcut through the woods to avoid a bully. The mysterious fuzzy mud they encounter sets off a chain of events that lead to a U.S. Senate investigation and potential danger for the entire community. The story is told from multiple points of view, with elements of suspense, science fiction, and ecological disaster woven throughout. The book features a mix of character development, suspenseful plot twists, and real-world concerns, making it a thought-provoking read for upper elementary and middle school students.
Louis Sachar's writing in "Fuzzy Mud" is praised for its strong character development, suspense-filled plot, and thought-provoking themes. Readers appreciate the way the story addresses issues such as bullying, bravery, environmental hazards, and the consequences of unchecked biotechnology, making it a cautionary tale with relevance for both young and adult audiences. The inclusion of Senate hearings transcripts adds depth to the narrative, providing insight into the scientific elements of the plot while maintaining an engaging and authentic tone.
Woodridge Academy, a private school in Heath Cliff, Pennsylvania, had once been the home of William Heath, after whom the town had been named. Nearly three hundred students now attended school in the ... - #3
The Lost Scrapbook by Evan Dara is a unique and challenging novel that presents a fragmented narrative structure, akin to tuning in to different voices on a radio channel. The book explores themes of individual perspectives, metanarratives, and the act of piecing together fragments to form a cohesive whole. Set against the backdrop of an ecological disaster caused by a chemical corporation in a small American town, the novel delves into the complexities of human relationships, societal issues, and the search for meaning in a disjointed world.
along with marine acoustics and quantum biography and psychogeology, not to mention their respective subdisciplines; but what I am not interested in, Ms. Clipboard—or Mr. Canker or Mrs. Murmur or Call... - #4
The Companions by Sheri S. Tepper is a science fiction novel set on an overpopulated Earth where humans are squished together in huge building complexes, leading to the extinction of all other lifeforms. The story follows Jewel Delis, a protagonist who belongs to an organization dedicated to saving Earth's biodiversity through purchasing Ark planets. Jewel's adventures take her to different alien planets, where she encounters both good and bad alien races, all while dealing with themes of ecology, feminism, and interspecies companionship. The narrative weaves together elements of environmental destruction, religious extremism, genetic tampering, and the complex relationships between humans and animals.
elemental, monumental, fine phantasmic elephants; hairless hippopotami, huddled close as spoons; riotous rhinoceri, roistering on grasslands; tiny tender tarsiers, eyes like moons; plump pied pandas, ... - #5
'Permafrost' by Alastair Reynolds is a sci-fi novella set in a near future where Earth is facing an apocalyptic environmental disaster. A group of scientists in 2080 embarks on a risky time travel experiment to alter the past and prevent the catastrophe that threatens the future of humanity. The story revolves around the character Valentina Lidova, a 71-year-old Russian math teacher who becomes one of the time travelers tasked with saving the world by changing the course of history. The narrative unfolds in a non-linear fashion, exploring themes of time travel paradoxes, environmental collapse, and the resilience of the human spirit.
Reynolds' writing style in 'Permafrost' is praised for its gripping storytelling, thought-provoking concepts, and well-developed characters. The novella delves into complex ideas of time travel, quantum effects, and the consequences of altering the past, creating a compelling and multi-layered narrative. The blend of dystopian elements, scientific theories, and emotional depth makes 'Permafrost' a captivating read that keeps readers engaged till the last page.
After I shot Vikram we put our things in the car and drove to the airstrip. Antti was nervous the whole way, knuckles white on the steering wheel, tendons standing out in his neck, eyes searching the ... - #6
In "Migrations" by Charlotte McConaghy, the story follows Franny Stone, a woman in a world devastated by climate change where most animals have become extinct. Franny is determined to track the migration of the last Arctic terns and convinces a fishing crew to join her on this journey. As the narrative unfolds, Franny's troubled past is slowly revealed, intertwining with her present quest to follow the terns on their epic migration. The novel skillfully weaves together multiple timelines, exploring themes of loss, environmental destruction, and the human connection to nature.
Franny's character is portrayed as complex and haunted by personal demons, leading her on a reckless yet captivating voyage to follow the Arctic terns. The writing style is described as beautiful, with a focus on nature writing and the climate crisis, creating a sense of urgency and poignancy throughout the novel. The story blends elements of adventure, mystery, and environmental themes, making it a timely and thought-provoking read that delves into the depths of human nature and the impact of our actions on the world around us.
Once, my husband found a colony of storm petrels on the rocky coast of the untamed Atlantic. The night he took me there, I didn’t know they were some of the last of their kind. I knew only that they w... - #7
'Forty Thousand in Gehenna' by C.J. Cherryh is a multi-generational science fiction novel that delves into the story of human colonists abandoned on the planet Gehenna, where they must adapt to co-existing with a complex native species known as the Calibans. The book explores themes of human-alien interactions, interstellar politics, and cultural adaptation over a span of 300 years, portraying a sweeping saga of survival and evolution in a harsh and unfamiliar environment. Through multiple viewpoints and chronological jumps, Cherryh weaves a narrative that challenges readers to ponder the complexities of observing and understanding different cultures, all while maintaining a sense of intrigue and suspense.
Accept coded packet; navigation instructions contained herein. US CAPABLE and US SWIFT will accompany and convoy. Mission code: WISE. Citizens will board on noncitizen manifest, identifiable by lack o... - #8
'Children of Eden' by Joey Graceffa is a fast-paced dystopian novel that delves into a world plagued by ecological concerns. The story follows Rowan, a second child who lives in a world where only one child per family is allowed. Rowan's life is marked by hiding and struggling to survive in a world facing a severe drought of life. is praised for its intriguing plot, well-fleshed-out characters, and the ability to keep readers engaged with twists and turns that make it hard to put down.
The author, Joey Graceffa, uses his novel to draw attention to real-world problems, particularly environmental issues, while also incorporating unique and interesting visions of a possible future. Despite taking inspiration from other sources, 'Children of Eden' stands out as a thought-provoking and well-constructed story that entertains and educates readers.
“The priests say our ancestors ruined the planet that way, Rowan. More, more, always more, until the Earth couldn’t give any more and she died.” He grins. He’s teasing me, I know, but I see the secret... - #9
Dawn for a Distant Earth by L.E. Modesitt Jr. is the first novel in The Forever Hero trilogy. Set in a distant future where Earth has been colonized and left in ruins following ecological collapse, the story follows the protagonist, Gershwin, who is on a mission to restore the planet to its former glory. Despite facing challenges and dwindling support, Gershwin's dedication to the cause drives the narrative forward, with themes of perseverance, ecological restoration, and the impact of human actions on the environment.
The plot of the book revolves around Gershwin's journey from an Imperial pilot to the commander of Old Earth Base, as he recruits and educates devilkids to aid in the reclamation effort. The writing style is described as realistic and engaging, with a focus on the protagonist's longevity and mental struggles as an immortal. The narrative also includes elements of post-apocalyptic Earth, radiation mutations, and the struggles of humanity to survive and thrive in a harsh environment.
The boy crept through the thin bushes and scattered patches of ground fog toward the shambletown wall. The leathers of his tunic were ripped, and the thonging where the skins were joined was loosening... - #10
'Gamechanger' by L.X. Beckett is set in a post-apocalyptic world where generations are trying to rebuild society using referendum voting and surveillance to determine social credit. The story follows Rubi Whiting, a virtual gameplayer and aspiring attorney, who gets involved in a case of an antisocial being that may be an illegal AI or even an alien. The novel is described as a big sprawling cyberpunk work with elements of hope in a climate-ravaged world, but some readers found it challenging to connect with the characters and the complex storyline. Despite its flaws, the book explores themes of AI-mediated trauma, transhuman family dynamics, and the aftermath of disaster and dystopia.
She was in a chic Parisian neighborhood with a view of the Eiffel Tower, waiting on a meeting. When @Interpol showed up in her pop-in conference room, she’d been sending pings to a no-show client for ...