Find yourself amazed by the world of City of Ice and Dreams, the third story and second climate science fiction novel in the series, Tales from a Warming Planet. In a near-future Antarctica damaged by climate change, a woman leads a ragtag group of refugees to find a lost city and a new life. City of Ice and Dreams is one of four in the series, which includes The Mother Earth Insurgency, Carbon Run, and Restoration.
A desperate journey to Antarctica
In a near-future world damaged by climate change, a woman who’s lost her identity leads a ragtag group of refugees to find a legendary city and a new life, only to discover a past that threatens the people she loves most. In 2261, Sento, a beautiful, intelligent, tormented young woman, is obsessed by Isorropia, a city in Antarctica that is half-myth, half-legend. Surviving a shipwreck, Sento resolves to trek south with immigrants on a suicidal one-way journey across the melting ice. She leads the pilgrims across a raging river, weeps beneath a massive natural sculpture draped with blue ice, and defends an endangered fur seal.
Meanwhile, in the secretive city, First Citizen Elita Soares watches the growing threat of the pilgrim train. She wants no more climate refugees within the city walls. When Elita learns her half-sister may be among the immigrants, she vows to stop the newcomers at all costs. Will the pilgrims reach the fabled city before Antarctica’s harsh climate kills them? And why is Elita afraid of her half-sister?
Selected reviews
“An entertaining, thought-provoking story of climate change.” — Amazon review
“Follansbee’s talent for showcasing humanity’s spirit—and its demons—definitely shows through.” — Ashleigh Gauch
Frequently asked questions
Why does your climate science fiction story focus on refugees? As the climate changes, millions of people may move away from uninhabitable environments. What if Antarctica became a destination? It was a fascinating idea to explore.
Is your science fiction novel appropriate for younger readers? I’ve written City of Ice and Dreams for mature young people and adults. Antarctica is a harsh environment that sometimes takes lives. I wanted the novel to be realistic, but hopeful at the same time.
Do I need to read all four stories in your series? No, it’s not necessary to read all four books. They are written as standalone novels, but they are connected by humanity’s challenge in facing climate change.