California Against the Sea: Visions for Our Changing Coastline

The book "California Against the Sea" is a 2023 Golden Poppy Award Winner for Nonfiction, exploring sea level rise along the West Coast through human stories and ecological dramas. It is a must-read for our uncertain times, as it examines the difficult realities of incorporating fairness into our tally of costs and benefits.

Format: Hardback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 09 November 2023
Publisher: Heyday Books

The captivating exploration of sea level rise along the West Coast, presented through human stories and ecological dramas, is a testament to the resilience and determination of those facing the challenges posed by this global phenomenon. This remarkable book, 2023 Golden Poppy Award Winner for Nonfiction, has been selected by the California Independent Booksellers Alliance and is a must-read for our uncertain times.

Written with visceral urgency, thorough research, and compelling storytelling, California Against the Sea delves into the complex dynamics of addressing sea level rise. Author Xia offers a thought-provoking examination of when seawalls make sense and when it is better to embrace the tides. Through her insightful analysis, she challenges readers to consider the difficult trade-offs and ethical considerations involved in managing our coastal ecosystems.

In California Against the Sea, Xia explores the multifaceted impacts of engineered landscapes, market pressures of development, and the ongoing ecological activism and political battles that shape our contemporary coastline. She uncovers the intricate interplay between human actions and natural processes, shedding light on the urgent need for collective action to forge a climate-wise future.

The book takes readers on a journey along Californias 1,200-mile coastline, from the beaches of the Mexican border to the sheer-cliffed North Coast. Through the voices of Indigenous leaders, community activists, small-town mayors, urban engineers, and tenacious environmental scientists, Xia weaves a rich tapestry of perspectives and experiences. Together, they chronicle the challenges and urgency of addressing sea level rise, highlighting the competing arguments, agreements, compromises, and visions that govern our coastal communities.

Xia's investigation takes us to various locations, including Imperial Beach, Los Angeles, Pacifica, Marin City, San Francisco, and beyond. She weighs the rivaling arguments, agreements, and compromises that shape the response to sea level rise, providing a balanced and nuanced perspective. Through her reporting, Xia highlights the successes and failures of past initiatives, as well as the innovative solutions and technologies being developed to mitigate the impacts of rising sea levels.

California Against the Sea is not only a scientific and environmental exploration but also a deeply human story. It explores the emotional toll of climate change on individuals and communities, highlighting the resilience and adaptability of those who call the West Coast home. The book sheds light on the personal journeys of those who have witnessed the devastating effects of sea level rise, as well as the inspiring efforts of those working tirelessly to protect and preserve our coastal ecosystems.

In conclusion, California Against the Sea is a groundbreaking work that offers a comprehensive and empathetic exploration of sea level rise along the West Coast. Written with passion, expertise, and a commitment to social justice, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of our coastal environments and the urgent need for collective action. As we navigate the challenges of our changing climate, California Against the Sea provides us with valuable insights and inspiration to build a more resilient and sustainable future.

Dimension: 209 x 139 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781597146197