On November 13, 2024, Teachers College came alive with an inspiring book talk featuring BrightFlame, an author and strategist for regenerative earth practices at the Center for Sustainable Futures. The book talk was also moderated by TC’s Kelly Whyte, a PhD student in Science Education. Held in a hybrid format, the event welcomed a diverse audience of students, faculty, and eco-conscious readers, all eager to learn how storytelling can spark real-world change. For nearly a decade, BrightFlame has played a pivotal role within the CSF team, contributing to strategic planning for potential projects and collaborations—even before the center received its official accreditation. Her previous work for the center can be found here.
In the book talk, BrightFlame introduced her debut solar punk novel, The Working, a riveting tale of a modern coven striving to prevent an eco-cataclysm and uncover the key to a more sustainable future. With its richly diverse characters, themes of social justice, and a solarpunk aesthetic, the book captures a sense of hope that feels urgently needed in today’s world.
In her talk, BrightFlame shared why she wove pressing global issues like the climate crisis into her narrative, highlighting how fiction can serve as a powerful tool for imagining better futures. She explained how the solarpunk genre, with its optimistic lens, offers readers tangible ideas for creating a more sustainable world—one where magic and action intertwine to inspire change.
The event wrapped up with an engaging Q&A session, followed by a book signing. Attendees eagerly picked up their copies of The Working, while those joining online were encouraged to support local bookstores or order from major retailers. The book is now available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Bookshop as well as Kindle, Apple Books, Google Play, and additional online stores.
Overall, the talk was a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of storytelling—showing us not only the challenges ahead but also the bright futures we can build together.
