Scan barcode
A review by jukietoss
Mobility by Lydia Kiesling
hopeful
informative
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
This book was so smart and good, I can't contain myself. An absolutely searing look at global warming, the evils of the oil industry, its interconnectedness to international war, the banality of evil, civilian complicity in upholding these evils, and on and on. And it does it by following the story of an unassuming and ultimately enjoyable-to-read-about teen/young adult daughter of American diplomats. It's such an accessible approach to examining how we've found ourselves in the current historical moment, and where we may be going from here.
Everything about this book feels intentional. It makes reading it such a joy because you know Kiesling did it all on purpose. It's impossible not to reflect on who we each are in the currently unfolding story of our climate disaster. The book both renders it of individual importance and impact and conveys its macro factors and the profound depth of change necessary to change course for the planet. It asks the question "what role will you play as the world burns?" and it forces unpleasant realizations about the ease and likelihood of upholding the individuals, companies, and systems that are expediting the global climate crisis.
This book is such a gorgeous example of how fiction can hold up mirrors and enable us to engage with the world differently. It's a truly enjoyable read--so well written, textured relationships, compelling narrative--but it's not a book you can set down and stop thinking about. I really loved that about it.
Everything about this book feels intentional. It makes reading it such a joy because you know Kiesling did it all on purpose. It's impossible not to reflect on who we each are in the currently unfolding story of our climate disaster. The book both renders it of individual importance and impact and conveys its macro factors and the profound depth of change necessary to change course for the planet. It asks the question "what role will you play as the world burns?" and it forces unpleasant realizations about the ease and likelihood of upholding the individuals, companies, and systems that are expediting the global climate crisis.
This book is such a gorgeous example of how fiction can hold up mirrors and enable us to engage with the world differently. It's a truly enjoyable read--so well written, textured relationships, compelling narrative--but it's not a book you can set down and stop thinking about. I really loved that about it.