My Life at the Bottom: The Story of a Lonesome Axolotl

Linda Bondestam's new book, My Life at the Bottom, is a tale of a lonely axolotl who is the last of its kind. It is a bittersweet, droll, existential, and hopeful story of catastrophe that bursts with life, narrated by an adorable axolotl who is possibly the last of its kind.

Format: Hardback
Length: 46 pages
Publication date: 17 June 2022
Publisher: Restless Books

In a serene forest of seaweed, a rare and captivating axolotl named ME embarked on its very first swim. With its graceful movements, it seemed to glide effortlessly through the water, yet a sense of loneliness lingered within its being, as out of 987 eggs, only mine had successfully hatched. Could it be that I was the last axolotl in these waters?

At the bottom of a lake in Mexico City, our axolotl narrator attended underwater school, where it learned valuable skills and collected treasures left behind by the mighty land lugs. Life was filled with joy and companionship as it danced and reveled with its tiger salamander friends. The world seemed to be a paradise, but as time passed, the temperature soared, and the water began to murkier. The once vibrant aquatic ecosystem started to dwindle, and finding friends became a challenging task for the lonely axolotl.

However, hope emerged on a fateful day when a colossal wave carried the axolotl into a surprising new future. It found itself in a vast, unfamiliar realm, filled with strange and wondrous creatures. With its resilience and determination, the axolotl adapted to its new surroundings, forging new alliances and discovering new wonders.

Through its journey, MY LIFE AT THE BOTTOM explores the profound impact of climate change on the natural world. It sheds light on the delicate balance of ecosystems and the devastating consequences of human actions. But it also offers a glimmer of hope, showcasing the resilience and adaptability of nature and the power of compassion and empathy to overcome even the most daunting challenges.

Linda Bondestam's captivating storytelling and exquisite aquatic art bring this tale to life, offering a unique perspective on the climate crisis that will resonate with readers of all ages. It is a testament to the power of storytelling to inspire change and ignite a sense of responsibility in our hearts.

Dimension: 214 x 290 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781632061386