Imaginary Borders by Xiuhtezcatl Martinez

Thank you Penguin Teen and NetGalley for the free advanced digital copy.  All thoughts are my own.

One the Pocket Change Collective Series, Imaginary Borders examines how climate change impacts us all, regardless of city limits and borders.  The author uses his art and music to express his distress about our current climate crisis.  One of the aspects that I enjoyed about this book is that while it is short, it provides big ideas from which to build a movement.  "We all have a responsibility to be a part o this redefinition of movement culture," Martinez writes.  Martinez uses anecdotes to show how climate change has impacted his own life, constantly reminding readers that "if we wait for the floodwater to  reach our doorstep, it will be too late."  

Martinez's written word is an art form in itself.  His writing exemplifies the storytelling of his ancestors and the power of self-expression.  "Art can build a bridge to fill those gaps of connection," explains Martinez, showing that art of any kind can be used to share hard truths and deeper ideas in a form that is easier to understand.  He reiterates the need for diverse voices in every movement in order to help build those bridges and tear down walls that have been built for generation after generation.

There are many quotable moments in this small book.  It would make for a great gift book for a graduate or someone looking to make a change in the world.  Some of Martinez's stories were scattered, which made the continuity of his ideas falter a bit.  Nevertheless, his ideas are worth expounding upon, and I hope others find inspiration in his art and his words.

Rating: 3/5 stars