Climate change is one of the greatest challenges the planet is facing today. Artists of all kinds, including writers, have explored it in their work, capturing current impacts and predicting how the Earth and its people will deal with climate catastrophe. The Bombay Circle Press has curated a list of environmental dystopian fiction books that explore the fear and anxiety caused by this threat.
Parable of the Sower by Octavia E. Butler
First published in 1993, this book is set in a fictional 2024 featuring a culture destroyed by drugs, disease, war, and chronic water shortages. When a fire destroys one of the last remaining safe compounds killing many, Lauren Olamina and a few other refugees must leave to find safety and possibly come up with a revolutionary idea that may save mankind.
Odds Against Tomorrow by Nathaniel Rich
Published in 2013, this book is set in a near-future New York City. Mitchell Zukor is hired to calculate the worst-case scenarios so that corporations can be indemnified against any future disasters. He grows obsessed with the possibility of ecological collapse, war, natural disasters and all of a culture’s fears and loses touch with Elsa Bruner, his friend who has just started a commune and is harbouring her own apocalyptic secret.
The Book of Koli by M.R. Carey
Set in a post-apocalyptic world after humans attempted to genetically enhance trees in hopes of healing a deteriorating planet, and instead creating a world hostile to people filled with predatory plants and dangerous ‘shunned men’. Fifteen-year-old Koli lives in a small village where some people seem genetically predisposed to operate the surviving old tech. Although survival is found only within the walls of the village, he may be forced to venture outside.
The Novel Year by Varun Gwalani
While this book doesn’t directly address climate change, it does highlight the human experience of a world where pandemic risks are increasing due to it. Following multiple first-person narratives, this book explores what happens when people are forced into their homes indefinitely and how they cope with their new lives.
The Ministry for the Future by Kim Stanley Robinson
In 2025 an organisation to advocate for future generations and all living creatures is established. Told through fictional eye-witness accounts this is the story of how climate change will impact people. It is a sobering but hopeful look into the near future.
Environmental fiction may be a theme of growing importance that helps us reflect on the impacts of climate change and pollution. Keep an eye on The Bombay Circle Press’ bulletin for more recommendations on various themes.