Xiuhtezcatl Martinez has been fighting for climate change since the age of six. He states that his generation has more tools available to them with the presence of social media. Therefore, they understand the problems of the world. It is not that his generation does not care, it is that they find it hard to engage when no real solutions are presented. In his short novel, Imaginary Borders, Mr. Martinez’s focal points are the connection between many global crises and climate change, what he is doing to help, and what the readers can do when they are ready to engage.
Mr. Martinez illustrates his argument using many statistics, historical examples and his own experiences. The population destroying the earth’s climate is not the population having to live with the consequences. People of Color (POC) in poorer neighborhoods, or even poorer countries, are usually the ones whose homes are flooded or burned during storms which are coming more frequently due to climate change. According to current trends, by the end of the century climate catastrophes will be 64 times worse “which would mean more than half of California burning every year.” Mr. Martinez also makes the connections between climate change, national budget issues, immigration, and even wars. Solve the problem with climate change, and it could alleviate the others. Mr. Martinez is calling on others in his generation to help redefine the movement with their diverse talents. As the author states, “It’s not about changing the world - it’s about building it together.”
With this book, the author is addressing today’s young adults. The content reflects issues in society today; it is heart-felt and to the point. In addition, the novel is short and meaningful which will appeal to reluctant readers. Therefore, Imaginary Borders is an essential purchase for any high school or public library.
