Movement Makers: How Young Activists Upended the Politics of Climate Change
School strikes for the climate. A bold campaign for a Green New Deal. Fossil fuel divestment. These and other youth-driven climate initiatives irrevocably altered the dialogue about climate change in the United States, giving us a fighting chance at avoiding the worst effects of the crisis. But where did this unprecedented wave of activism come from? Movement Makers reveals the behind-the-scenes story of youth climate organizing, showing how it grew into a true mass uprising.
The second edition, released in January 2024, brings the story up to the present with updates on groundbreaking new developments in the movement.
Order the second edition
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No previous book has covered the U.S. youth climate movement in such a comprehensive way, illuminating how two decades of organizing laid the foundation for seismic shifts in our national politics. Here’s what others are saying about Movement Makers:
“A textured assessment of the prowess and promise of the youth climate movement…Nick Engelfried has gifted us with a clear-eyed breakdown of what this movement has already achieved, while deftly pointing us toward potential paths for political action as climate disruption ramps up around the world. A riveting read at an urgent juncture.”
-Jules Boykoff, Professor of Political Science, Pacific University
“Engelfried’s well-turned work has crucial importance to today’s world.”
-Booklist
“Essential reading for anyone working to ensure a just and equitable future for all life on Earth.”
-Zack Porter, Executive Director, Standing Trees
“The youth climate activists whose hearts and minds and actions Engelfried describes in this book show us how we can come together out of love for each other, for our children…and for our planet and its precious variety of living beings.”
-Frank Kromkowski, Co-Coordinator, Montana Service for Peace and Justice and Environmental Stewardship
Even as climate disruption worsens around the globe, a grassroots rebellion led by young people is winning real progress toward a just, sustainable world. This is the story told in Movement Makers. Prepare to be amazed at the meteoric rise of a movement fighting for a livable future—and be inspired to find your place in it.
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Movement Makers resources:
Attend or schedule a Movement Makers author event
Nick is happy to schedule virtual or in-person reading and speaking events with activist organizations, student clubs, classes, or other groups interested in Movement Makers. Find an existing event near you, or contact Nick to set one up.
Start a book discussion group
Movement Makers book discussion groups are a great way to share the incredible story of the youth climate movement with a wider audience. Download a free, chapter-by-chapter discussion questions packet to help you get started.
Get Movement Makers at your library
Would you like Movement Makers to be available to everyone at your local public library? Check out this guide on how to request your library purchase a book for its shelves.
Get involved in the youth climate movement
Most of the organizations featured in Movement Makers are actively fighting for a livable future and climate justice today. Learn more about them and how to get involved by visiting their websites at the links below. Then join their email lists, go to a meeting, or participate in an action!
Groups fighting for a just, green economy
Indigenous Environmental Network
Groups organizing against fossil fuel money
New York Youth Climate Leaders
Groups fighting fossil fuel infrastructure
Groups training a new generation of climate leaders
Nick Engelfried 