Cli-Fi: The Scariest Sci-Fi of All?

With the increasingly strong effects of climate change rocking the weather of the world, it’s no surprise that authors have begun to imagine what our lives will look like in future years on Earth. Try any of these cli-fi, or climate fiction, books for a taste of what could be coming for our planet. 

In American War by Omar El Akkad, readers are introduced to a United States in the middle of a second civil war caused by climate change flooding and an oil shortage.

The End We Start From by Megan Hunter tells the story of a young family forced to move from London after flooding and food shortages. After the family is separated, the mother must try to create a sense of normalcy for her child in a world she no longer knows.

The Fifth Season by N.K. Jemisin bring readers to a world controlled by life-changing earthquake activity where humans fight to prepare for the next “Fifth Season.” Jemisin explores this world through multiple points of view, including Essun—a woman who can control the forces of the Earth. This is the first book in the Broken Earth trilogy.

Gold Fame Citrus by Claire Vaye Watkins imagines a California suffering from such severe drought conditions that people are forced to move east in search of water and supplies. Luz, a former model, and her companion Ray, a former military man, try to survive after they rescue a child from looters.

Looking for more recommendations? Check out our Climate Fiction booklist.