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A review by remmie
The Deluge by Stephen Markley
2.0
Did not finish - I wanted to like this book, I really did. The problem is all too relevant and heartbreakingly on our doorstep. The writing is dense and changes point of view abruptly, but I could have lived with it if the plot was more compelling.
Ultimately, it feels self indulgent - to the point where I couldn't even skim read to the end. It boils down to a manic pixie dream girl swooping in starting yet another environmental activist movement but this time it saves the day. It is hard to swallow, becoming a plot that grates rather than inspires.
The idea that if only we let Republicans keep their guns and their stance on abortion and then they'll magically care about the environment also feels naive at best. My biggest problem with this book is that all these ideas have been tried and haven't moved the needle on climate action - the author, probably unintentionally, seems to suggest that all climate activism needs is a hot, young, somewhat manic leader - which as a trope feels a bit trite and in reality would be just another drop in the ocean...
Ultimately, it feels self indulgent - to the point where I couldn't even skim read to the end. It boils down to a manic pixie dream girl swooping in starting yet another environmental activist movement but this time it saves the day. It is hard to swallow, becoming a plot that grates rather than inspires.
The idea that if only we let Republicans keep their guns and their stance on abortion and then they'll magically care about the environment also feels naive at best. My biggest problem with this book is that all these ideas have been tried and haven't moved the needle on climate action - the author, probably unintentionally, seems to suggest that all climate activism needs is a hot, young, somewhat manic leader - which as a trope feels a bit trite and in reality would be just another drop in the ocean...