Hello,
Enjoyed chatting with you all, as usual! Thanks to Nathan who connected all the way from DC! Those of you who missed it, hope to see you in September.
We felt that the stories from Everything Change vol. III were interesting in the various imaginative dystopias they presented, but the general quality was not impressive. Some were more likable in that they presented community spirit or human resiliency in the face of disaster. All were quite pessimistic about earth’s future, which was only fitting, after all.
The NETFLIX documentary “Breaking Boundaries” was impressive! In it, the scientist Johan Rockstrom presents a thoroughly-researched and clearly-organized look at the nine systems (such as climate, biodiversity, fresh water, etc.) that are key to Earth's stability. But they have boundaries which are being broken thanks to human damage (as you might expect). The diagrams are vivid and strikingly effective in getting the points across. Narration by the great David Attenborough and a surprisingly positive “solutions” finale make it a must-see.
Christiana Figueres called it “probably the most important documentary that has ever been filmed.”
For September:
We chose quickly—Project Hail Mary by Weir, 2021 a novel (very fun sci-fi read—we need some fun, right?)
It is popular and hard to find, but Ray and I own a copy and will hurry through it so it can be passed around—quickly, please! Barb said that she saw copies at the PC library too.
Keep everyone posted if you find access to a copy or ebook. Getting a copy to everyone will be our own “Hail Mary” haha. The meeting is on September 1st at noon.
We will also discuss an Outrage and Optimism podcast/Tedtalk on circular economy. Will post the link for it soon!
Ideas for October, November, December—
Jane Goodall’s The Book of Hope is due out in October—we could get our reserves placed early and select it for December
Pastoral Song by Rebanks just came out in August—maybe for October?
Other suggestions:
We are the Weather by Jonathan Safron Foer 2019 (esp the first half would be useful)
Count Down by Shanna Swan 2021
The Making of a Democratic Economy by Kelly and Howard 2019
A documentary about orcas, "Dammed to Extinction” of 2019
The Living Sea of Waking Dreams by Richard Flanagan, 2021
Post Growth, Life after Capitalism by Tim Jackson, 2021
Please add more suggestions, or correct me if I forgot some.
Thanks,
Sue