Actually, it was meant to be a book launch reading. In the end, it turned into much more than that: an evening of exchange, connection and a shared search for answers to one of the greatest challenges of our time.
On July 25, our member Tommy Brandl presented his new climate thriller Die letzte Hoffnung (engl.: The Last Hope) at Brockmann bookshop in Bruehl. The sold-out event was a striking demonstration that interest in climate fiction and the issues behind it remains as strong as ever. Tommy was supported by our members Heidi Metzmeier and Alina Melzl, who represented Climate Fiction Writers Europe at their own book stall.
There, however, they presented not only their own works but also books by other members of the association. This created a space for in-depth discussions. Many visitors took the opportunity to find out more about the association, its aims and the diversity of climate fiction. There was a great deal of interest, as well as a keen curiosity about our authors.
What made this evening special, however, was not just the reading. From the very start, Tommy Brandl made it clear that he wanted to do more than simply read from his novel. His aim was to create a space where people could talk openly about the climate crisis – about their concerns and fears, as well as their hopes and possible paths forward.
This space came into being.
Following an impressive introduction and a reading from *The Last Hope*, a lively discussion ensued. It quickly became clear that those present were by no means ignoring the issue of climate change. On the contrary, they sought to exchange views, asked questions, shared their own experiences and ideas, and discussed what contribution each and every one of them could make.
Mutual Respect, Openness And A Shared Desire To Bring About Change
Naturally, opinions differed as to which measures were necessary or realistic. However, it was precisely this diversity of perspectives that made the evening so valuable. Despite differing views, the dialogue was characterised by mutual respect, openness and a shared desire to bring about change.
Even after the official part of the event had ended, discussions continued at the Climate Fiction Writers Europe stand. It became clear just what a vital role literature can play in this context. Stories reach people on an emotional level; they open up new perspectives and allow people to identify with the characters. Climate fiction can make complex issues tangible, encourage reflection and bring people together in conversation. For many visitors, it was reassuring to realise that they were not alone in their questions and concerns about the climate crisis.
Need For Guidance, Discussion and Credible Stories About Our Future
At the same time, the evening highlighted the potential our association has. Time and again, visitors asked about Climate Fiction Writers Europe, our aims and our members’ books. This interest made it clear that there is a need for guidance, discussion and credible stories about our future.
Therefore, it quickly became clear to the members involved that events of this kind should not remain a one-off. They combine literature with social dialogue and impressively demonstrate the contribution that authors can make. Perhaps this is precisely one of our association’s great strengths – bringing people together through stories and opening up new perspectives.
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Tommy Brandl for organising and hosting this special evening, as well as to Heidi Metzmeier and Alina Melzl for their support and for representing our association so enthusiastically. The event in Brühl was a successful example of how climate fiction can bring people together, spark discussions and inspire hope. We are already looking forward to many more events of this kind.
