After the social justice summer, there were a lot of think pieces and books being published. I read several articles, but none of the books compelled me to purchase them until I saw Leah Thomas post online about her book The Intersectional Environmentalist: How to Dismantle Systems of Oppression to Protect People + Planet. Her book was one of the best books I have read in a long time.
First, it is visually appealing from the cover to the colorful interior pages. Just because a book has a lot of facts does not mean the book design needs to be bland.
Next, although Thomas is the author, this book pulls together a lot of experiences from several experts. Also, no voice is left unheard. The first sentence of the introduction states, “We can’t save the planet without uplifting the voices of its people, especially those most often unheard.” She ensured all voices were heard including people from different nationalities, physical or mental abilities, race, gender, socioeconomic status, or sexual preference.
I dislike social justice books that don’t challenge me in a good way and expand my knowledge. For example, I never thought about the impact of thrifting clothing or furniture. I also did not know about the impact of the global north being centered in the conversations about the pollution and waste caused in the global south by the global north. We know trees are important for our air quality, but I hadn’t thought about the impact of having fewer shady places on the people who live there. I could go on, but I really want you to stop what you are doing and get this book.
Last, Thomas’ book is a spring board to act. There is a myriad of resources included on how to take action and how to learn more.
If you want to make a positive impact on this planet and you want to learn how to care for people better, read this book.
Rating: 5/5