A review by jkellyjr
The Parrot and the Igloo: Climate and the Science of Denial by David Lipsky

4.0

Heroes, villains, and a dash of humor – "The Parrot and the Igloo" unravels the gripping saga of climate change battles..……

Book Information

“The Parrot and the Igloo: Climate and the Science of Denial” by David Lipsky, is a 496-page science book published on July 11, 2023. The audio version is Narrated by Mike Chamberlain and spans 18 hours and 44 minutes. Thank you to RB Media for providing me with an advance readers copy of this book for review.

Summary

"The Parrot and the Igloo" is an account of the genesis of climate denial, weaving together the stories of prominent inventors like Edison, Tesla, and Westinghouse who revolutionized our world. Amidst this backdrop, the book introduces courageous scientists who raised concerns about climate change. David Lipsky skillfully reveals how a web of deception, first established to distort facts about products like aspirin and cigarettes, later facilitated the proliferation of denialist ideas.

My Thoughts

David Lipsky's book, "The Parrot and the Igloo: Climate and the Science of Denial," is a unique and comprehensive exploration of climate change history and the denial movement. Divided into three parts, "Part One: The Inventors," "Part Two: Scientists," and "Part Three: Deniers," the book offers the flexibility to listen in any order. “The Parrot and the Igloo” is a mind-blowing journey through science, lies, and the fight for truth.

While the book provides a wealth of captivating and well-researched information, its considerable length can be overwhelming at times. Nonetheless, it masterfully traces the long history of science and skepticism surrounding global warming, debunking famous "studies" used to discredit its reality.

One of the book's strengths lies in its infusion of humor and pop culture references, making the content more engaging and enjoyable. Lipsky skillfully presents complex concepts in an accessible manner, making them easy for readers to understand. Notably, the book uncovers surprising connections between big tobacco and climate deniers, shedding light on the manipulative tactics employed to challenge established science.

The book's focus on character-driven storytelling sets it apart from typical science literature. By delving into the lives of both heroes and villains related to climate change, readers gain a fascinating understanding of the science and quackery intertwined in their experiences.

The vivid descriptions of the people involved add intrigue to the narrative and keep readers hooked throughout the book. Moreover, the narrator, Mike Chamberlain, enhances the experience with his engaging performance, making the material feel more like a mystery, comedy, or thriller than a traditional science book.

Recommendation

"The Parrot and the Igloo" is a deeply researched and captivating book that skillfully navigates the history of climate change and denial. Despite its length, the narrative style and excellent narration make it a rewarding and enlightening read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of climate science and denial movements.

Rating

4 Real Science Stars