Once Upon the Permafrost
Knowing Culture and Climate Change in Siberia (Critical Green Engagements Investigating the Green Economy and its Alternatives)
Susan Alexandra Crate
BOOK REVIEW

In the depths of Siberia, beneath layers of frost that hold stories untold, lies a profound exploration of humanity's interconnectedness with nature in Once Upon the Permafrost: Knowing Culture and Climate Change in Siberia. Authored by the astute anthropologist Susan Alexandra Crate, this work transcends mere academic inquiry; it ignites a critical dialogue about climate change, culture, and the realities of life on the shrinking permafrost.
As the icy grip of the Arctic begins to loosen with the relentless march of climate change, Crate draws us into the lives of those who have called this unforgiving land home. She paints a vivid tapestry of the Indigenous cultures of Siberia, allowing us to witness their resilience and adaptability in the face of rapidly changing environmental conditions. The people here do not merely survive; they thrive, embodying a unique symbiosis with their surroundings, and this is where Crate's work becomes a powerful call to action.
Her narrative pulses with urgency and empathy, compelling us to confront the looming repercussions of climate change-not just as a scientific phenomenon but as a lived reality for countless communities. The heart of this book beats within the stories of its characters, whose voices resonate with the weight of tradition and the burden of change. As glaciers melt and permafrost thaw, homes, food sources, and ancient ways of life are threatened, painting a dire picture that sparks a primal fear within the reader: what will be lost if we remain indifferent?
Readers have been captivated by Crate's expertise and emotional depth, with many praising her ability to weave personal narratives into the global tapestry of environmental issues. Yet, this work is not without its critics. Some argue that while her anthropological insights are compelling, they might oversimplify the complexities of climate science. But therein lies the beauty of her approach-she empowers the narratives of those living on the frontlines of climate change, urging us not to see them as mere statistics in a report, but as individuals with dreams, struggles, and the profound knowledge of their landscapes.
In a world increasingly dominated by data and graphs, Crate's narrative is a refreshing reminder of the human aspect of climate discourse. It is as if she holds a mirror to society, reflecting both our responsibility and our potential for change. Her insightful examination intertwines Indigenous knowledge with contemporary climate science, illustrating the crucial need for collaboration in our fight against environmental degradation. We cannot afford to turn a blind eye; this is more than an issue of geography; it is about humanity's collective future.
As you delve into Once Upon the Permafrost, let its words seep into your consciousness. Feel the urgency pulsing through every chapter. This isn't just a book; it's an awakening. It inspires action, urging each of us to become stewards of the planet. If we do not heed the warnings of those who live closest to the changing climate, we risk relegating their stories-and our own-to the grave of history.
The tales of Siberia's melting permafrost echo far beyond their icy borders. They serve as a clarion call for global responsibility, a reminder that the stakes are not merely environmental-they are existential. Crate's work forces you to confront the realities of climate change with all the emotion and gravity they deserve. Dive in, for to ignore this is to turn away from the very essence of what it means to be human in a fragile world. 🌍✨️
📖 Once Upon the Permafrost: Knowing Culture and Climate Change in Siberia (Critical Green Engagements: Investigating the Green Economy and its Alternatives)
✍ by Susan Alexandra Crate
🧾 360 pages
2021
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