110 pages • 3 hours read
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576
Novel • Fiction
Global • Near Future
2020
Adult
18+ years
The Ministry for the Future is a climate fiction novel by Kim Stanley Robinson that begins in 2025 with a deadly heatwave in India, spurring global efforts to combat climate change. Led by Mary Murphy, the Ministry uses legal, economic, and controversial tactics, including a secret "black wing," to reduce carbon emissions. Through activism, bureaucratic work, and changing governance models, humanity slowly makes progress in addressing climate change by the 2040s.
Informative
Challenging
Contemplative
Mysterious
Hopeful
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Kim Stanley Robinson's The Ministry for the Future captures both praise and critique. Reviewers commend its imaginative and hopeful vision of addressing climate change, highlighting its detailed scientific grounding and urgency. However, some criticize the dense prose and fragmented narrative. Overall, its ambitious scope and thought-provoking ideas make it a provocative read.
A reader who would enjoy The Ministry for the Future by Kim Stanley Robinson is likely passionate about climate science, speculative fiction, and socio-political change. Fans of The Overstory by Richard Powers or New York 2140 by Robinson himself, will appreciate its blend of environmental urgency and narrative innovation.
44,482 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Frank May
An aid worker and sole survivor of a heat wave in India who struggles with guilt and radicalization, becoming a key figure in dialogues related to climate action.
Badim Bahadur
Mary’s chief of staff, deeply involved in the ministry's covert operations, and a character marked by contradictions and initiatives in addressing climate issues.
A Syrian Refugee
A voice representing the plight and resilience of refugees, navigating life in a Swiss refugee camp and the broader impacts of global capitalism.
Pete Griffen
A dedicated scientist researching ways to mitigate sea-level rise, embodying both idealism and pragmatism in his Antarctic work.
Tatiana Voznesenskaya
Leads legal efforts for climate justice within the ministry, characterized by her strong personality and diplomacy despite her challenges.
Janus Athena
Ministry staff working on economic strategies to address climate change, noted for their rigorous rationality and unique perspective on conforming to norms.
Minister Chan
China’s central bank representative, who becomes an ally in transitioning to a carbon-neutral economy, encouraging bold economic strategies.
Jane Yablonski
Chair of the Federal Reserve who transitions from conservative monetary policies to endorsing radical changes needed to address climate issues.
Chandra Mukajee
Head of India’s climate delegation, representing nationalistic responses and challenges within international climate accords.
Arthur “Art” Nolan
Mary’s love interest and airship captain, symbolizing her shift towards personal relationships and happiness.
Dick Bosworth
An economist who supports Mary’s initiatives for shifting economic approaches to combat climate change.
576
Novel • Fiction
Global • Near Future
2020
Adult
18+ years
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