Saving Us

Features

This book has been chosen by Niobe Burden Austere for the 2024 Community Book Initiative as a reflection of the theme, stewardship. All profits from the purchases of this book during the 2024 Community Book Initiative event (running from 5/13/24-6/10/24) benefits local nonprofit Clean Up the Lake. 

About the Book:

Called “one of the nation’s most effective communicators on climate change” by The New York Times, Katharine Hayhoe knows how to navigate all sides of the conversation on our changing planet. A Canadian climate scientist living in Texas, she negotiates distrust of data, indifference to imminent threats, and resistance to proposed solutions with ease. Over the past fifteen years Hayhoe has found that the most important thing we can do to address climate change is talk about it—and she wants to teach you how.

In Saving Us, Hayhoe argues that when it comes to changing hearts and minds, facts are only one part of the equation. We need to find shared values in order to connect our unique identities to collective action. This is not another doomsday narrative about a planet on fire. It is a multilayered look at science, faith, and human psychology, from an icon in her field—recently named chief scientist at The Nature Conservancy.

Drawing on interdisciplinary research and personal stories, Hayhoe shows that small conversations can have astonishing results. Saving Us leaves us with the tools to open a dialogue with your loved ones about how we all can play a role in pushing forward for change.

About Niobe Burden Austere:

From an early age, my father instilled in me a deep appreciation for nature and a keen eye for its intricate beauty.  His influence continues to resonate in my art photography, shaping my affinity for simplicity of form, a unique perspective that defines my artistic vision.  I moved to Tahoe in 1998 and I've been a professional photographer for more than 30 years, with travels spanning the world.  Currently I have a passion for experimenting with icm (intentional camera movement) and creating fine art for the home or hospitality projects that exude tranquility and serenity to a space.

I've also recently taken up conservation photography to build awareness about the importance of protecting Lake Tahoe.  I’ve been getting involved on a local government jurisdiction level to influence policy to provide “affordable“ workforce housing, and sustainable development while taking care of our precious lake.

To see my fine art photography - www.niobeburdenphotoart.com

To see travel and conservation photography - www.niobeburden.com

Why Niobe Chose This Book:

"Saving Us" by Katherine Hayhoe - A climate scientist's case for Hope and Healing in a Divided World.....and this is a perfect description! Katherine Hayhoe was a recent featured speaker at the UC Davis extension in South Lake Tahoe.  She is one of the nation's most effective communicators on climate change, and a featured speaker of Ted Talk. Her words are so relevant for today.  She draws from research as a climate scientist, as well as realistic and personal stories to show how small conversations, where people can relate how climate change affects them, are a game changer to encourage people into action. Even if in a small part…all those small parts add up.  I was so moved by her recent talk and would encourage anyone interested in learning how to talk about climate change to read this book and sign up for her weekly newsletter where she gives good news, bad news and inspiring action tools.