Future Hopes: Speculative Fiction for a Time of Climate Change

In an uplifting anthology of climate fiction, solution-focused and inspiring short stories by authors including Eli Brown, Louie Stowell, and Neal and Brendan Shusterman offer hope in the fight to save planet Earth.

In the face of climate change, this collection of compelling stories offers a road map for a future where our planet can thrive, rooted in real-world science and technology. Optimism shines as ingenious characters imagine ways to make a healthier planet, from the realistic to the fantastic, and get down to making them happen. From skyscraper farms to a bug-eating school competition, from guerrilla gardening to a rebellion against augmented reality, these wide-ranging and thought-provoking stories will leave readers feeling empowered in the fight to address the climate crisis. After each story, anthologist Wren James shares some ways that readers can make its ideas a reality. Award-winning author and zoologist Nicola Davies lends her insight and encouragement to the foreword, while comprehensive back matter includes practical advice for living more sustainably at home, discussion questions, a glossary, resources for further learning, and information about the contributors.


With contributions by:
Eli Brown, L. R. Lam, M. G. Leonard, Rebecca Lim, Oisín McGann, Tolá Okogwu, Neal and Brendan Shusterman, Louie Stowell, and Bijal Vachharajani

Standard and Primary covers are widely available through general retailers. They often have higher print runs and can be cheaper, especially during sales.

In contrast, Direct Market (DM) and variant covers are primarily sold in comic shops. DM editions tend to have more limited availability and may be more valuable to collectors.

The main differences lie in artwork style, availability, price, and collector appeal. Ultimately, the choice between standard and variant covers depends on personal preference, budget, and individual collecting goals.

Comic book enthusiasts have various formats to choose from when collecting their favorite stories.
Here's a brief overview of the main types:

Omnibus

• Large, hardcover collections
• Usually contain complete runs or extensive story arcs
• Typically 800-1000+ pages
• Higher price point, often €100-€150

Oversized Hardcover (OHC)

• Similar dimensions to omnibus, but thinner
• Collect shorter runs or story arcs
• Usually 300-600 pages
• Priced between €30-€50

Hardcover (HC)

• Standard-sized hardcover books
• Collect 6-12 issues typically
• Similar dimensions to single issues, but with a hard cover
• Priced around €25-€35

Trade Paperback (TP)

• Softcover collections
• Standard comic book size
• Usually collect 4-6 issues
• Most affordable option, typically €15-€25

Other Formats

• Absolute Editions: Oversized, deluxe hardcovers (mainly DC Comics)
• Compendiums: Massive paperback collections
• Graphic Novels (OGN/GN): Original stories not previously released as single issues

The choice between these formats often depends on personal preference, budget, and collecting goals. Omnibus and OHC editions offer larger artwork and more content but at a higher price, while TPs provide a more affordable way to collect complete story arcs