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Holy Ground: On Activism, Environmental Justice, and Finding Hope
An inspiring collection of essays, personal and political, from the leading environmental justice activist of our time, that frames the challenges we face as a society and—with grace, generosity, and hope—charts the way toward equity, respect, and a brighter future.
Described by Bryan Stevenson as “the center of the quest for environmental justice in America,” Catherine Coleman Flowers has dedicated her life to fighting for the most vulnerable communities—rural, poor, of color—who have been deprived of the basic civil right to a clean, safe, and sustainable environment. Both deeply personal and urgently political, the essays in Holy Ground draw on history to illuminate and contextualize the most pressing issues of this moment: from climate change to human rights, from rural poverty to reproductive justice, from the notorious history of Lowndes County, Alabama, to the broader crisis of racialized disinvestment in the South. Flowers maps the distance and direction toward justice, examining her own diverse ancestry as evidence of our interconnectedness. She reflects on trailblazers who have fought for social and environmental justice. She writes about her mother, a civil rights activist who lost her life to gun violence, and her own deeply personal experience with reproductive justice. And in a remarkably candid and moving piece, she writes about a traumatic attack that occurred at a moment of collective triumph, in which she weighs her fight for the common good against her own well-being. Flowers’s faith shines throughout the collection, guiding her work and inspiring her vision of our responsibility to one another and to our shared home.
Drawn from a lifetime of organizing, activism, and change-making, Holy Ground equips us with clarity, lights a way forward, and rouses us to action—for ourselves and for each other, for our communities, and, ultimately, for our planet.
Described by Bryan Stevenson as “the center of the quest for environmental justice in America,” Catherine Coleman Flowers has dedicated her life to fighting for the most vulnerable communities—rural, poor, of color—who have been deprived of the basic civil right to a clean, safe, and sustainable environment. Both deeply personal and urgently political, the essays in Holy Ground draw on history to illuminate and contextualize the most pressing issues of this moment: from climate change to human rights, from rural poverty to reproductive justice, from the notorious history of Lowndes County, Alabama, to the broader crisis of racialized disinvestment in the South. Flowers maps the distance and direction toward justice, examining her own diverse ancestry as evidence of our interconnectedness. She reflects on trailblazers who have fought for social and environmental justice. She writes about her mother, a civil rights activist who lost her life to gun violence, and her own deeply personal experience with reproductive justice. And in a remarkably candid and moving piece, she writes about a traumatic attack that occurred at a moment of collective triumph, in which she weighs her fight for the common good against her own well-being. Flowers’s faith shines throughout the collection, guiding her work and inspiring her vision of our responsibility to one another and to our shared home.
Drawn from a lifetime of organizing, activism, and change-making, Holy Ground equips us with clarity, lights a way forward, and rouses us to action—for ourselves and for each other, for our communities, and, ultimately, for our planet.
256 pages, Hardcover
Published January 28, 2025
16 people are currently reading
3413 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
January 28, 2025
I'm not sure how to review this. I learned so very much about environmental issues from this author. I think she's worked hard for decades and has a lot of wisdom and guidance to offer.
I agree with the author in so much as activists have to do what they can without regard to party. At the same time, the author defends Jeff Sessions and pretends that racists are incapable of polite behavior with Black folks, and that's a vast over simplification of the issue.
Hardened racists who were members of the Klan were known to also have biracial children. White racists aren't always mean to everyone all of the time. They aren't cartoon villains. I know this author is old enough and lived long enough to know this.
There's a somewhat preachy and unnecessary tone towards younger activists who aren't functioning like this author's generation, and she has passive-aggressive snide remarks about that.
She pretends that MAGA and Trump supporters can be worked with. The thing is, this isn't true. This type of activism doesn't work for long-term change. I wish the author had more respect for young activists who are moving in a different way. It's frustrating because most of this was said in the 70s, and it's like the author missed the memo.
In my opinion, pretending that MAGA Republicans are neutral actually normalizes racism. The author even shares anecdotes about Republican politicians literally using her for photo ops like the interaction was a win. It's kind of cringey.
This is a mixed bag for me because I found the stories of Black rural life fascinating. I spent a lot of time in rural Alabama on a Great-Uncles farm, and I've witnessed the grinding poverty. It was wonderful to see this author shine a light on this population, which is often forgotten in the fight for civil rights and climate change. These stories touched my heart and made me long for my childhood summers spent on the family farm in Alabama. I'm familiar with this history.
My main issue is that the author has experience to share, but her solutions failed to work for her generation. It would be nonsensical to apply them in this generation. This is worth reading but prepare to be irritated with the author's lecturing tone and resulting conclusions.
This is narrated by Karen Chilton. Karen does an excellent job with this nonfiction book, keeping her tone light. This adds depth to information that could otherwise feel like a bit of a boring lecture. I would highly recommend consuming this on audiobook.
Thank you to Catherine Coleman Flowers, Spiegel & Grau by Spotify Audiobooks, and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to and review this audiobook. All opinions and viewpoints expressed in this review are my own.
I agree with the author in so much as activists have to do what they can without regard to party. At the same time, the author defends Jeff Sessions and pretends that racists are incapable of polite behavior with Black folks, and that's a vast over simplification of the issue.
Hardened racists who were members of the Klan were known to also have biracial children. White racists aren't always mean to everyone all of the time. They aren't cartoon villains. I know this author is old enough and lived long enough to know this.
There's a somewhat preachy and unnecessary tone towards younger activists who aren't functioning like this author's generation, and she has passive-aggressive snide remarks about that.
She pretends that MAGA and Trump supporters can be worked with. The thing is, this isn't true. This type of activism doesn't work for long-term change. I wish the author had more respect for young activists who are moving in a different way. It's frustrating because most of this was said in the 70s, and it's like the author missed the memo.
In my opinion, pretending that MAGA Republicans are neutral actually normalizes racism. The author even shares anecdotes about Republican politicians literally using her for photo ops like the interaction was a win. It's kind of cringey.
This is a mixed bag for me because I found the stories of Black rural life fascinating. I spent a lot of time in rural Alabama on a Great-Uncles farm, and I've witnessed the grinding poverty. It was wonderful to see this author shine a light on this population, which is often forgotten in the fight for civil rights and climate change. These stories touched my heart and made me long for my childhood summers spent on the family farm in Alabama. I'm familiar with this history.
My main issue is that the author has experience to share, but her solutions failed to work for her generation. It would be nonsensical to apply them in this generation. This is worth reading but prepare to be irritated with the author's lecturing tone and resulting conclusions.
This is narrated by Karen Chilton. Karen does an excellent job with this nonfiction book, keeping her tone light. This adds depth to information that could otherwise feel like a bit of a boring lecture. I would highly recommend consuming this on audiobook.
Thank you to Catherine Coleman Flowers, Spiegel & Grau by Spotify Audiobooks, and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to and review this audiobook. All opinions and viewpoints expressed in this review are my own.
October 22, 2024
Holy Ground by Catherine Coleman Flowers is a set of essays on climate change that is unlike any work that I have ever ready on this topic. Ms. Flowers brings a unique and incredibly important missing perspective to this discussion, the perspective of the impact of climate change on Black rural communities. I learned so much reading this collection of essays and I highly recommend this important book. So much of the discourse on climate change comes from a privileged perspective. I sincerely hope that this impactful piece of work from the founder of the Center for Rural Enterprise and Environmental Justice will become a fixture in curriculums on climate change. This book is not just about climate change, it is about climate justice. Please read this book!
Thank you to NetGalley and Spiegel & Grau for an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and Spiegel & Grau for an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
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January 27, 2025Interesting read in which the author’s determination shines through. The audiobook narration is smooth and kept me focused. Whenever I see content mention “environmental justice” I always hope to hear about how animal agriculture is killing our planet. I only got to about 30% of this book and there was much mention of eating animal products. I was disappointed because I was on board with the author up until that point. Regrettably, I just couldn’t bring myself to listen anymore. Please check out The Food Empowerment Project for more information on total environmental justice that includes everyone, regardless of species.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGallery for letting me listen!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGallery for letting me listen!
January 29, 2025
A huge THANK you to Spiegel and Grau for the chance to read Holy Ground by Catherine Coleman Flowers.
What a poignant and relevant book as we enter the 2nd week of what is proving every day to be a damaging new administration. This book has so many elements that highlight the problems our country is faced with, including climate change and equitable access to clean, safe, sanitary water and environments. She addresses how that plays into systemic racism across the nation and how our actions ripple across the globe.
The author is a Christian activist who reminds us that we are all interconnected and that we each have a moral obligation to help each other and to not give up hope. We all must do our part by remembering our ancestor's histories, recognizing histories' mistakes, staying informed, and moving forward with change. It is crucial for our children, their children, and their future.
I loved this book. It gave me a perspective I think we all need to cling to right now.
𝘖𝘯𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘺 𝘧𝘢𝘷𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘦 𝘱𝘢𝘴𝘴𝘢𝘨𝘦𝘴:
"For all our vast differences in a strange way we share the same palate, because we share the same history. Southern food, country food, soul food is created to appeal to the senses - it needs to look, smell, feel, and taste good. But it also needs to connect us to each other and to our cultural traditions. All food is a form of identity, but soul food carries within it vast individual and collective histories of suffering, determination, grit, creativity, liberation, and community."
What a poignant and relevant book as we enter the 2nd week of what is proving every day to be a damaging new administration. This book has so many elements that highlight the problems our country is faced with, including climate change and equitable access to clean, safe, sanitary water and environments. She addresses how that plays into systemic racism across the nation and how our actions ripple across the globe.
The author is a Christian activist who reminds us that we are all interconnected and that we each have a moral obligation to help each other and to not give up hope. We all must do our part by remembering our ancestor's histories, recognizing histories' mistakes, staying informed, and moving forward with change. It is crucial for our children, their children, and their future.
I loved this book. It gave me a perspective I think we all need to cling to right now.
𝘖𝘯𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘺 𝘧𝘢𝘷𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘦 𝘱𝘢𝘴𝘴𝘢𝘨𝘦𝘴:
"For all our vast differences in a strange way we share the same palate, because we share the same history. Southern food, country food, soul food is created to appeal to the senses - it needs to look, smell, feel, and taste good. But it also needs to connect us to each other and to our cultural traditions. All food is a form of identity, but soul food carries within it vast individual and collective histories of suffering, determination, grit, creativity, liberation, and community."
August 10, 2025
This book takes a deep dive into how many issues intersect in all communities, but especially within those that are underserved. Access to clean water, clean air, fresh food, housing, living wages, healthcare, education…these are basic needs, and yet they are damn near impossible to make the needle move within the positions of power that can do something about it. These issues are experienced by many of us—and yet many vote against their own best interests, against these very issues. (I again refer you back to Heather McGhee’s book ‘The Sum of Us: What Racism Costs Everyone and How We Can Prosper Together’. Her book explains it all). In Holy Ground, the author walks us through her years of advocacy in communities and legislation to try and bring about change and justice where it is needed the most. Another reminder that regardless if you don’t do politics…politics WILL do you. EVERYTHING IS POLITICS! The air you breathe, the water you drink, the land you stand on…everything.
February 12, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Spiegel & Grau for providing an e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
Because she is such a prominent figure in environmental justice advocacy, Catherine Coleman Flowers has been one of my to-read authors for quite some time. And let me tell you this: she did not disappoint! _Holy Ground_ is a compelling and deeply personal exploration of how race and socio-economic status, among other factors, shape one's access to a clean, healthy, and safe life. In particular, this book features in-depth discussions of how systemic neglect disproportionately affects marginalized communities, intertwined with success stories that offer glimmers of hope throughout.
The author's thorough depiction of intersectionality is the book's greatest strength. Many of the essays in this book either feature or tie back to Flowers' hometown in Lowndes County, Alabama, and she paints a detailed picture of the diverse community of inhabitants. Different races, socio-economic statuses, religious beliefs, genders, and political views make for a vibrant community -- and difficulties regarding inequality and progress. As someone with an Environmental Sciences degree, I am familiar with discussions of these topics. However, _Holy Ground_ provides the most comprehensive and human-centered exploration I have encountered. For perhaps the first time, these concepts feel fully fleshed out, tangible, and urgently pressing.
Perhaps one of the most surprising—and at times, uncomfortable—aspects of the book is Flowers’ ability to find common ground across political ideologies. She praises politicians on both the left and right for their efforts in tackling sanitation inequality, a rare issue that seems to transcend party lines. While this bipartisan approach can feel unfamiliar and challenging, it underscores an important message: effective activism often requires working with people whose beliefs may not align entirely with our own. Flowers does not compromise her progressive stance but instead demonstrates how collaboration can lead to real, tangible change. Her approach is a testament to the idea that solutions to pressing social issues should not be hindered by political divisions.
Speaking of uncomfortable aspects of this book, Flowers includes many religious references and weaves her Christian viewpoint throughout several of her analyses. While this perspective does not appeal to me on a personal or spiritual level, I still believe that it adds depth to her arguments. Combining a sense of morality into our discussions of activism invokes a deeply human imperative to care for one another, and this viewpoint is one that I see echoes throughout a lot of environmental activism. Whether this morality comes from a religious base or not, it is always refreshing to see prominent activists advocating for community support. Flowers' explicitly Christian perspective will appeal to a large audience, even if it does not touch me personally.
If I have any critiques of _Holy Ground_, it is in the pacing. While compelling from the start, I found myself a good 30-40% into the book before any themes began to tie together into a more cohesive picture. Before that point, the essays felt almost entirely separate from one another. While this approach works in many cases, I knew that the essays in this book were meant to be more cohesive. And they were; it just took a long time for the strings to connect.
As an environmentalist myself, I found this book to be insightful and informative in a way that is both refreshing and deeply meaningful. I would highly recommend this book to anyone interested in learning more about environmental justice, public health, or activism, specifically in the American South. I personally will be seeking out more of Catherine Coleman Flowers' works and writings in the future.
Full review on my blog.
"In the darkest of times, hope is still possible. Indeed, it is essential."
-Catherine Coleman Flowers, Holy Ground
Because she is such a prominent figure in environmental justice advocacy, Catherine Coleman Flowers has been one of my to-read authors for quite some time. And let me tell you this: she did not disappoint! _Holy Ground_ is a compelling and deeply personal exploration of how race and socio-economic status, among other factors, shape one's access to a clean, healthy, and safe life. In particular, this book features in-depth discussions of how systemic neglect disproportionately affects marginalized communities, intertwined with success stories that offer glimmers of hope throughout.
The author's thorough depiction of intersectionality is the book's greatest strength. Many of the essays in this book either feature or tie back to Flowers' hometown in Lowndes County, Alabama, and she paints a detailed picture of the diverse community of inhabitants. Different races, socio-economic statuses, religious beliefs, genders, and political views make for a vibrant community -- and difficulties regarding inequality and progress. As someone with an Environmental Sciences degree, I am familiar with discussions of these topics. However, _Holy Ground_ provides the most comprehensive and human-centered exploration I have encountered. For perhaps the first time, these concepts feel fully fleshed out, tangible, and urgently pressing.
"The significance here is that a progressive senator and an extreme right-wing senator worked together in common cause for rural sanitation."
-Catherine Coleman Flowers, Holy Ground
Perhaps one of the most surprising—and at times, uncomfortable—aspects of the book is Flowers’ ability to find common ground across political ideologies. She praises politicians on both the left and right for their efforts in tackling sanitation inequality, a rare issue that seems to transcend party lines. While this bipartisan approach can feel unfamiliar and challenging, it underscores an important message: effective activism often requires working with people whose beliefs may not align entirely with our own. Flowers does not compromise her progressive stance but instead demonstrates how collaboration can lead to real, tangible change. Her approach is a testament to the idea that solutions to pressing social issues should not be hindered by political divisions.
Speaking of uncomfortable aspects of this book, Flowers includes many religious references and weaves her Christian viewpoint throughout several of her analyses. While this perspective does not appeal to me on a personal or spiritual level, I still believe that it adds depth to her arguments. Combining a sense of morality into our discussions of activism invokes a deeply human imperative to care for one another, and this viewpoint is one that I see echoes throughout a lot of environmental activism. Whether this morality comes from a religious base or not, it is always refreshing to see prominent activists advocating for community support. Flowers' explicitly Christian perspective will appeal to a large audience, even if it does not touch me personally.
If I have any critiques of _Holy Ground_, it is in the pacing. While compelling from the start, I found myself a good 30-40% into the book before any themes began to tie together into a more cohesive picture. Before that point, the essays felt almost entirely separate from one another. While this approach works in many cases, I knew that the essays in this book were meant to be more cohesive. And they were; it just took a long time for the strings to connect.
"The will to change is a renewable resource."
-Catherine Coleman Flowers, Holy Ground
As an environmentalist myself, I found this book to be insightful and informative in a way that is both refreshing and deeply meaningful. I would highly recommend this book to anyone interested in learning more about environmental justice, public health, or activism, specifically in the American South. I personally will be seeking out more of Catherine Coleman Flowers' works and writings in the future.
Full review on my blog.
January 25, 2025
For this and other book reviews, visit www.bargain-sleuth.com
Thanks to NetGalley and Spiegel and Grau through Spotify Books for the digital copy of this audiobook; I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Part memoir and part environmental justice manifesto, this book of essays by Catherine Coleman Flowers really opened my eyes to the climate change crisis in ways I hadn’t thought of before. When talking about climate change, the focus is usually on the privileged white class. Coleman Flowers peels back the curtain on the impoverished, rural, and often minority communities that have been affected by climate change, and what we can do as an individual, and as a country, to help. She also offers up her own story of needing reproductive care and how many can’t get the care they need now after the Supreme Court’s Dobbs decision.
The author also shares stories about her life and weaves her tales of social activism throughout. Through her discussions with well-known and respected movers and shakers, both in the political sphere as well as the social and environmental movement, Coleman Flowers offers real solutions to problems facing everyone, but most especially Black people, whose voice is often left unheard or dismissed.
I thought the narrator, Karen Chilton, was great, but she sounds a lot younger than the author. Just a little nitpicky, I guess. Why does every narrator have to sound like they are in their early 30s? Clearly, Coleman Flowers is much older than that based on her stories. In 2023, she was recognized as one of the TIME 100 most influential people in the world and one of the Forbes 50 Over 50. So, let’s get a more mature voice for mature authors! End rant.
This is the kind of book that will make one want to take action immediately to do their part in society–I know I do!
Thanks to NetGalley and Spiegel and Grau through Spotify Books for the digital copy of this audiobook; I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Part memoir and part environmental justice manifesto, this book of essays by Catherine Coleman Flowers really opened my eyes to the climate change crisis in ways I hadn’t thought of before. When talking about climate change, the focus is usually on the privileged white class. Coleman Flowers peels back the curtain on the impoverished, rural, and often minority communities that have been affected by climate change, and what we can do as an individual, and as a country, to help. She also offers up her own story of needing reproductive care and how many can’t get the care they need now after the Supreme Court’s Dobbs decision.
The author also shares stories about her life and weaves her tales of social activism throughout. Through her discussions with well-known and respected movers and shakers, both in the political sphere as well as the social and environmental movement, Coleman Flowers offers real solutions to problems facing everyone, but most especially Black people, whose voice is often left unheard or dismissed.
I thought the narrator, Karen Chilton, was great, but she sounds a lot younger than the author. Just a little nitpicky, I guess. Why does every narrator have to sound like they are in their early 30s? Clearly, Coleman Flowers is much older than that based on her stories. In 2023, she was recognized as one of the TIME 100 most influential people in the world and one of the Forbes 50 Over 50. So, let’s get a more mature voice for mature authors! End rant.
This is the kind of book that will make one want to take action immediately to do their part in society–I know I do!
April 25, 2025
This was an enlightening collection of essays. I appreciated learning more about Flowers work and her determination to fight for her hometown and rural impoverished primarily Black communities to receive proper sanitation and clean water.
I also enjoyed her reflection on this country's sordid history with interfering with women's reproductive rights and bodily autonomy via subsidized sterilizations that impacted BIPOC women and families. It is so problematic that the Government continually inserts themselves into private and personal decisions regarding women's reproductive decisions.
Yet, there was some commentary that didn't land for me. Her bipartisan approach to her work and lauding certain politicians and problematic people for doing the right thing and supporting human rights didn't sit right with me.
Furthermore, some of her thoughts in one of her particular essays Food for the Soul felt slightly fat phobic and reeked of the typical ideology associated with diet culture that assumes health and wellness can only be achieved in a small body. Which isn't entirely true. More nuance and context is needed when having these discussions and this one lacked that by asserting American's obesity problem is due to people eating too much, and blaming processed food to be the sole reason why people are overweight. And if we all "eat clean and organic" we wouldn't have these issues. I was shocked an environmental justice activist would say that considering socioeconomic factors play a major role in health, wellness and nutrition.
Despite my little gripes this essay collection was thought provoking and I learned so much and highly recommend.
3.5 ⭐️
I also enjoyed her reflection on this country's sordid history with interfering with women's reproductive rights and bodily autonomy via subsidized sterilizations that impacted BIPOC women and families. It is so problematic that the Government continually inserts themselves into private and personal decisions regarding women's reproductive decisions.
Yet, there was some commentary that didn't land for me. Her bipartisan approach to her work and lauding certain politicians and problematic people for doing the right thing and supporting human rights didn't sit right with me.
Furthermore, some of her thoughts in one of her particular essays Food for the Soul felt slightly fat phobic and reeked of the typical ideology associated with diet culture that assumes health and wellness can only be achieved in a small body. Which isn't entirely true. More nuance and context is needed when having these discussions and this one lacked that by asserting American's obesity problem is due to people eating too much, and blaming processed food to be the sole reason why people are overweight. And if we all "eat clean and organic" we wouldn't have these issues. I was shocked an environmental justice activist would say that considering socioeconomic factors play a major role in health, wellness and nutrition.
Despite my little gripes this essay collection was thought provoking and I learned so much and highly recommend.
3.5 ⭐️
January 24, 2025
In the words of her publisher, this is a collection of “stories that need to be read by more,” and I agree. It’s a collection of essays, so there are some common themes and facts that are repeated, but all the more important for being remembered long after the audiobook ends or the last page is turned. These essays document atrocities like poor families being held hostage by utility companies and regulators, unable to afford repairs on a septic tank or running water from a tap. When loan programs have been proposed by community groups, they are denied repeatedly by those in power. The author is an Alabama native and refers often to her native county, along with other examples of unrelenting destitution in Mississippi, Louisiana, and parts of Texas. She talks about the struggles leading up to and since passage of the Civil Rights Act, and shares her concerns for the future. It’s a far-ranging book that brings many types of injustices to light and foreshadows what may befall even more residents if the current POTUS has his way. Despite this, it is ultimately hopeful.
My thanks to the author, publisher, producer, and #NetGalley for early access to the audiobook of #HolyGround for review purposes. Publication date: Jan 28, 2025.
My thanks to the author, publisher, producer, and #NetGalley for early access to the audiobook of #HolyGround for review purposes. Publication date: Jan 28, 2025.
May 22, 2025
Holy Ground is more than Environmental Justice and not just about Climate Change, but racism as well. Catherine Coleman Flowers starts off with a county that is full of poverty. So much so, that multigenerational families are residing in trailers they purchased in the 1990's, still owing thousands of dollars on their mortgages, and are now suffering from septics that are failing and they cannot afford to repair them, to the tune of about $20,000. The septics aren't covered by any type of typical warranties in other states and the results are overflowing septics full of raw sewage backing up into yards in town, creating a totally different health hazard of bacterial infections that are just now being found. Catherine Coleman Flowers mother was also an activist, and her mother's personal history, both triumphs and trajedy, are brought in to focus in something that reads straight out of a fiction novel, but unfortunately is nothing but the truth. Holy Ground is the fight of lands that deserve justice, equality, representation, and a fighting chance. Thank you for bringing this to our attention.
*I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. This review is my own opinion*
*I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. This review is my own opinion*
March 6, 2025
I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley for review.
Catherine Coleman Flowers is the daughter of an activist (her mother) who believed in equal rights for everyone. Her father was a salesman, after serving in the military, and both were activists in the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s. It only made sense for Flowers to continue the work work for communities who were failing their citizens.
Flowers ended up advocating for the people of the community she grew up in - Lowndes County, Alabama. After seeing that a large portion of the county's community who lived in poverty did not have access to clean water or working sanitation in their own homes, Flowers made it her mission to make these very basic human needs.
She was not only the voice for her beloved home, she became involved in projects across the US to bring the same lack of resources to the attention of those whom were in the position to do something to change it.
Catherine Coleman Flowers is the daughter of an activist (her mother) who believed in equal rights for everyone. Her father was a salesman, after serving in the military, and both were activists in the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s. It only made sense for Flowers to continue the work work for communities who were failing their citizens.
Flowers ended up advocating for the people of the community she grew up in - Lowndes County, Alabama. After seeing that a large portion of the county's community who lived in poverty did not have access to clean water or working sanitation in their own homes, Flowers made it her mission to make these very basic human needs.
She was not only the voice for her beloved home, she became involved in projects across the US to bring the same lack of resources to the attention of those whom were in the position to do something to change it.
October 20, 2024
I was so happy to win this book in a Goodreads giveaway, and it was a great read. The writing is beautiful, and the author defends her points with personal stories and professional studies in a way that keeps you wanting to read the next chapter. It also has me wanting to read more on the subject, which is always impressive in a book!
While it may seem small to some, my biggest critique is the use of the word “wheelchair-bound,” which comes up a few times. The language is outdated according to many in the disability community. Wheelchair bound implies that one is entirely reliant on their wheelchair, and this phrase takes away their personhood, when a wheelchair is a wonderful tool that one can use to enhance their mobility. “Wheelchair user,” if it’s even necessary to mention at all, is a more commonly accepted phrase, although language is always adapting!
Much love!
While it may seem small to some, my biggest critique is the use of the word “wheelchair-bound,” which comes up a few times. The language is outdated according to many in the disability community. Wheelchair bound implies that one is entirely reliant on their wheelchair, and this phrase takes away their personhood, when a wheelchair is a wonderful tool that one can use to enhance their mobility. “Wheelchair user,” if it’s even necessary to mention at all, is a more commonly accepted phrase, although language is always adapting!
Much love!
February 16, 2025
I found this book fascinating - as someone who is invested in fighting climate change, I was eager to dig in!
This book is really a collection of essays from the author, who grew up in Alabama. She explores the impact that climate change has on Black rural communities, which are often overlooked and underserved. Coleman Flowers really took me on a journey and helped me gain more insight and a deeper understanding of the ways that systemic racism impact access to sustainable farming practices for rural Black communities.
I would definitely recommend this book. Thank you to NetGalley and Spiegel & Grau for an advance copy of this audiobook.
This book is really a collection of essays from the author, who grew up in Alabama. She explores the impact that climate change has on Black rural communities, which are often overlooked and underserved. Coleman Flowers really took me on a journey and helped me gain more insight and a deeper understanding of the ways that systemic racism impact access to sustainable farming practices for rural Black communities.
I would definitely recommend this book. Thank you to NetGalley and Spiegel & Grau for an advance copy of this audiobook.
January 4, 2025
I won this book on the Goodreads giveaways. Thank you !!
Catherine Coleman Flowers is certainly a champion to so many injustices that have been ongoing for far too long. She gets down to business in learning , fighting and advocating for her everyone subjected to such inhumane conditions. Not just her home county but all around. Proving that this a big big problem. She gives hope She makes so many connections to the decision makers and rallies for changes in the laws that just are Stone Age like . Environmental justice !
I’m very happy I read this book
Catherine Coleman Flowers is certainly a champion to so many injustices that have been ongoing for far too long. She gets down to business in learning , fighting and advocating for her everyone subjected to such inhumane conditions. Not just her home county but all around. Proving that this a big big problem. She gives hope She makes so many connections to the decision makers and rallies for changes in the laws that just are Stone Age like . Environmental justice !
I’m very happy I read this book
March 4, 2025
Catherine Coleman Flowers expertly narrates environmental justice issues in her Alabama hometown against the backdrop of climate change and far right partisan politics. She draws on her faith, her family, and her lived experience in concluding that only the tip of the iceberg of EJ is talked about—we need real change. Change that can only come from all of us—across every generation and race, across the deepest political divide, across everything. Her writing on hope in the face of adversity is infectious. I need 10 more chapters stat!
April 8, 2025
Quick thoughts: A collection of essays on the topic of environmental justice, this could not be more timely. I found hope in the aspirations and recommendations. The author has dedicated her life to this type of work. Her whole heart is inserted within these pages filled with action and activism. Highly recommend.
I received a free copy of the book.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
I received a free copy of the book.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
November 16, 2024
Thank you @Siegel&Grau for an advance copy of this book.
Fascinating read. The writing of Catherine Coleman Flowers keeps you engaged and makes you want to get off the couch and do something for your neighbors and your community.
Fascinating read. The writing of Catherine Coleman Flowers keeps you engaged and makes you want to get off the couch and do something for your neighbors and your community.
November 22, 2024
very interesting and filled with discussion with political figures of all stripes, from Al Gore and Bernie Sanders to Jeff Sessions and Tommy Tuberville. Filled with passion. 4 stars. tysm for the arc.
March 27, 2025
Sometimes you don’t know what’s you don’t know. This book illuminated a world of struggles and American histories that I was regrettably ignorant to. I recommend this to anyone with some values and a heart to learn more about injustices in our nation. I feel incredibly called to action now.
December 26, 2024
A very powerful read!
January 29, 2025
This is so good. I loved every single word. I loved the narration. I learned so much! I finished it last week and I am till thinking about it.
February 3, 2025
For anyone who needs a little reminder that there are still people doing good work in our country today, this is it🤍🤍 Thank you, Catherine!
February 13, 2025
A powerful look at the intersection of marginalization, justice, and climate change. Loved the audiobook.
April 2, 2025
Flowers again tells compelling stories about race, environment and justice in Alabama and across the US.
Read
July 1, 2025I’m not sure we are talking enough about how recent forced sterilizations were…
Also incredible book written by an incredible woman! Activists like Flowers are reason to have hope.
Also incredible book written by an incredible woman! Activists like Flowers are reason to have hope.
February 20, 2026
I can only read books about our ecological decline.
December 26, 2024
Shoutout to Siegel & Grau for the ARC! Thank you for choosing me for the giveaway!
This book brings the perspective of black rural communities on various political issues, making it so important. Sometimes I feel that their voices will get drowned out in the media so I am glad this book centers around them and gives them a platform. The author also defends the points made with her own experiences and personal stories creating a very interesting read. Overall, this book was eye-opening and I did not want to put it down!
This book brings the perspective of black rural communities on various political issues, making it so important. Sometimes I feel that their voices will get drowned out in the media so I am glad this book centers around them and gives them a platform. The author also defends the points made with her own experiences and personal stories creating a very interesting read. Overall, this book was eye-opening and I did not want to put it down!
April 7, 2025
This was a fascinating read. I must confess I knew nothing about Catherine Coleman Flowers prior to reading this collection of essays - but what an amazing human. I also really enjoyed how unique, yet connected each of the essays in the collection is - they are each a blend of social/political history, environmental studies, current events, spirituality and personal memoir. She presents various case studies in social and environmental justice while simultaneously bringing a truly personal element of her own experience as an activist, a community member and a human being into the writing. I learned a lot and I enjoyed reading about her and her life.
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