Land Sickness

The author's life is turned upside down by the heatwave in Paris, and he seeks refuge on the Mediterranean island of Porquerolles. However, he cannot escape the harsh realities of the Anthropocene. The book is a fictionalized travelogue based on the author's experiences and explores the issues raised by the climate crisis.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 176 pages
Publication date: 17 March 2023
Publisher: Polity Press

As a heatwave engulfs Paris, the author's entire existence is upended and disoriented by the devastating effects of climate change. All the familiar landmarks and reference points that once provided stability and comfort are obliterated, leaving him in a state of bewilderment. In search of respite from the oppressive heat and mounting anxieties, he flees to the picturesque Mediterranean island of Porquerolles. However, even in this idyllic setting, can he truly escape the harsh realities of the Anthropocene?

This captivating novel is written in the form of a fictionalized travelogue, drawing upon the author's personal experiences and observations. It serves as a poignant exploration of the issues raised by the climate crisis, resonating with readers who are deeply concerned about the increasingly dire situation we find ourselves in on our climate-ravaged planet.

As the author arrives on Porquerolles, he is greeted by the serene beauty of the island and its tranquil atmosphere. The sea breeze carries the scent of blooming flowers, and the sun-drenched beaches provide a temporary respite from the scorching heat. However, beneath the surface of this paradise, the author begins to confront the harsh realities of the Anthropocene.

The island is plagued by environmental degradation, with plastic waste littering the shores and the marine ecosystem suffering from overfishing and pollution. The once-pristine coral reefs are now bleached and dying, and the delicate balance of the island's ecosystems is threatened by human activities. The author witnesses firsthand the impact of climate change on the local population, as they struggle to adapt to the changing weather patterns and the loss of their livelihoods.

Despite the idyllic setting, the author cannot shake off the sense of impending doom that looms over him. The heatwaves, droughts, and wildfires that have become increasingly frequent in recent years serve as a stark reminder of the irreversible damage we have inflicted upon the Earth. The growing urgency to address the climate crisis becomes more apparent with each passing day, and the author feels a deep sense of responsibility to contribute to the collective effort to mitigate the effects of climate change.

Through his journey on Porquerolles, the author reflects on the interconnectedness of all life on Earth and the urgent need for collective action to protect our planet. He explores the role of individual choices and behaviors in shaping the future of our planet and the importance of adopting sustainable practices to mitigate the impact of climate change.

The novel also sheds light on the political and economic complexities of addressing the climate crisis, highlighting the vested interests of corporations and the need for systemic change to address the root causes of environmental degradation. The author calls for a global movement to prioritize the health and well-being of the planet and to hold those responsible for climate change accountable for their actions.

In conclusion, "Porquerolles" is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that offers a poignant exploration of the effects of climate change on individuals and the planet as a whole. Through its fictionalized travelogue format, the author provides a relatable and accessible lens through which to examine the urgent issues raised by the climate crisis. The novel serves as a call to action, urging readers to recognize the interconnectedness of all life on Earth and to take responsibility for their actions in shaping a sustainable future.

Weight: 182g
Dimension: 123 x 190 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781509556137