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Who Cares Wins: Reasons For Optimism in Our Changing World
Optimism demands action. Optimism is an active choice. Optimism is not naïve and it is not impossible.
We are living in an age of turmoil, destruction and uncertainty. Global warming has reached terrifying heights of severity, human expansion has caused the extinction of countless species, and Neoliberalism has led to a destructive divide in wealth and a polarisation of mainstream politics. But, there is a constructive way to meet this challenge, there is a reason to keep on fighting and there are plenty of reasons for optimism.
Lily Cole has met with some of the millions of people around the world who are working on solutions to our biggest challenges and committed to creating a more sustainable and peaceful future for humanity. Exploring issues from fast fashion to fast food and renewable energy to gender equality, and featuring interviews with Sir David Attenborough, Sir Paul McCartney, Elon Musk and Extinction Rebellion co-founder Professor Gail Bradbrook, Reasons for Optimism is a beacon of hope in dark times.
This book is a rousing call to action that will leave you feeling hopeful that we can make a difference. We are the ancestors of our future: a generation who will either be celebrated for their activism or blamed for its apathy. It is for us to choose optimism, to make a change and to show what is possible.
We are living in an age of turmoil, destruction and uncertainty. Global warming has reached terrifying heights of severity, human expansion has caused the extinction of countless species, and Neoliberalism has led to a destructive divide in wealth and a polarisation of mainstream politics. But, there is a constructive way to meet this challenge, there is a reason to keep on fighting and there are plenty of reasons for optimism.
Lily Cole has met with some of the millions of people around the world who are working on solutions to our biggest challenges and committed to creating a more sustainable and peaceful future for humanity. Exploring issues from fast fashion to fast food and renewable energy to gender equality, and featuring interviews with Sir David Attenborough, Sir Paul McCartney, Elon Musk and Extinction Rebellion co-founder Professor Gail Bradbrook, Reasons for Optimism is a beacon of hope in dark times.
This book is a rousing call to action that will leave you feeling hopeful that we can make a difference. We are the ancestors of our future: a generation who will either be celebrated for their activism or blamed for its apathy. It is for us to choose optimism, to make a change and to show what is possible.
448 pages, Hardcover
Published July 30, 2020
69 people are currently reading
1439 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
August 2, 2020
Lily Cole is a rarity and a gem; a woman who has used her platform and fame as a model to shift the attention to prominent real world issues close to her heart and for that, I have the utmost respect and admiration. It can be tough to feel as though your one voice, as an everyday citizen, actually gets heard against the melee but this book brings some much-needed optimism, for those who feel they require it, in a time when stocks are indeed running on empty. She discusses wide-ranging topics such as ecology and the environment, feminism, equality, sustainable food production and our energy consumption, to name a few, and whilst there may be few answers as to what should be done to ensure our future on this planet, it certainly stimulates the brain and gets you ruminating. An engaging, thought-provoking and extremely interesting read. I flew through it as it is written in such an accessible fashion and touches on so many fascinating and incredibly important topical problems in such an optimistic and high-spirited manner. Cole is an inspiration. READ IT!
(I suppose I should address my pessimism whilst reviewing a book by an author who manages to be the eternal optimist. I think this quote by the inimitable José Saramago is befitting:
“. . . if there is a way for the world to be transformed for the better, it can only be done by pessimism; optimists will never change the world for the better.”
I imagine that what he is suggesting is that the ability of the pessimist to perceive, analyse and then criticise many important aspects of life on this mortal coil is helpful in that it is ultimately the striving for a perfection that, of course, does not exist. Pessimism in my mind is the ideology that things can always be better; always just that little bit closer to perfection. You must be able to recognise the flaws and faults in a system in order to attempt to improve it, and despite pessimism being portrayed as an explicitly negative personality trait, it can often be constructive.)
(I suppose I should address my pessimism whilst reviewing a book by an author who manages to be the eternal optimist. I think this quote by the inimitable José Saramago is befitting:
“. . . if there is a way for the world to be transformed for the better, it can only be done by pessimism; optimists will never change the world for the better.”
I imagine that what he is suggesting is that the ability of the pessimist to perceive, analyse and then criticise many important aspects of life on this mortal coil is helpful in that it is ultimately the striving for a perfection that, of course, does not exist. Pessimism in my mind is the ideology that things can always be better; always just that little bit closer to perfection. You must be able to recognise the flaws and faults in a system in order to attempt to improve it, and despite pessimism being portrayed as an explicitly negative personality trait, it can often be constructive.)
June 23, 2020
This book! I need to talk about this book. There are scientists, inventors and even brand new kinds of bacteria doing incredible things out there right now that I had no idea about!!!
We are told, almost constantly, how destructive our actions and purchasing decisions are to the environment and future of our planet. For good reason, of course. But where is the practical, measurable or even achievable advice to follow it?
Everything seems to come with added problems. Switch to plant-based dairy products but the packaging won’t biodegrade and the process will use too much water. Switch to an electric car but a lot more energy and materials are needed in its manufacture. Don’t take long haul flights but trains are slower, much more expensive and unreliable. Apple has some of the best green offices around but their products need replacing every few years. Where are the better solutions, where are the humans kicking ass and already working on better solutions?
They’re in this book. For real.
This book is a very, VERY welcome, highly-researched masterpiece into what COULD save not only our planet, but potentially humanity. If we listen and support the right ideas.
It covers a huge amount of important topics. From obvious ones like food consumption, waste disposal and travel methods, to less obvious ones like community, working hours, the media, and artificial intelligence.
It’s an uncomfortable read, full of truly shocking statistics, but it’s also the absolute best at injecting hope into the wound straight after too. Laws ARE being changed. And solid goals with dates ARE being set.
Favourite quote: Apocalypse has long haunted our imaginations, like a burning shadow. Yet it is not just the artists, mystics or zealots who are raising the alarm. This time, it’s the scientists.
Who Cares Wins will be released at the end of July and, in my humble opinion, I think it should be added to every school curriculum!
We are told, almost constantly, how destructive our actions and purchasing decisions are to the environment and future of our planet. For good reason, of course. But where is the practical, measurable or even achievable advice to follow it?
Everything seems to come with added problems. Switch to plant-based dairy products but the packaging won’t biodegrade and the process will use too much water. Switch to an electric car but a lot more energy and materials are needed in its manufacture. Don’t take long haul flights but trains are slower, much more expensive and unreliable. Apple has some of the best green offices around but their products need replacing every few years. Where are the better solutions, where are the humans kicking ass and already working on better solutions?
They’re in this book. For real.
This book is a very, VERY welcome, highly-researched masterpiece into what COULD save not only our planet, but potentially humanity. If we listen and support the right ideas.
It covers a huge amount of important topics. From obvious ones like food consumption, waste disposal and travel methods, to less obvious ones like community, working hours, the media, and artificial intelligence.
It’s an uncomfortable read, full of truly shocking statistics, but it’s also the absolute best at injecting hope into the wound straight after too. Laws ARE being changed. And solid goals with dates ARE being set.
Favourite quote: Apocalypse has long haunted our imaginations, like a burning shadow. Yet it is not just the artists, mystics or zealots who are raising the alarm. This time, it’s the scientists.
Who Cares Wins will be released at the end of July and, in my humble opinion, I think it should be added to every school curriculum!
December 10, 2021
Gee, I didn't see that coming. But, after having read (and been incredibly enamored with) All We Can Save, I noticed that Hermione Granger (oooops, that's Emma Watson) had also not only appreciated but was strongly recommending All We Can Save, ... which led me learning that Hermione (Emma Watson) also had this on her very short list of recommended climate change books.
And, to be clear, I'd never heard of Lily Cole until recently. I don't really follow fashion, and I'm pretty sure I don't recognize her from her screen roles. I didn't even figure that out who she was until I'd purchased the book through a UK vendor (which, alas, was more difficult than I expected). Still, without losing sight of the content itself, ... and it's hard not to focus on the author's unique background ... this is a serious, lengthy, broadly researched, well written, highly accessible climate change book ... written by a former supermodel ... and actor. Is it unfair for me to deem that unexpected? Maybe, and I concede that I (like most readers) harbor innumerable biases. But, yeah, in the end, I was caught off guard. So, I guess I'm glad I bought the book without knowing anything about the author.
Is this the first climate change book I'd recommend? Absolutely not.
Having said that, I keep a running list of climate change book I'd recommend for different types of readers (from hard core non-fiction to serious sci-fi); and I think this book might appeal to folks who might be unwilling to buy, open, start, let alone wade through the books that most frequently percolate to the top of my list.
I found the book informative and easy to read, I appreciated the (literal) sidebars (which added color and context without resorting to footnotes or endnotes), and I was pleasantly pleased by the breadth of her coverage and ability to explain otherwise complex topics. It is also a personal and poignant and, well, at the end of the day, readable and interesting and engaging book.
I'm glad I read it.
Supplement ... or, in retrospect: Having thought about it, it dawns on me that I should mention that Cole's ultimate pitch is, in many ways, aligned with Kathryn Hayhoe's Saving Us, in advocating for hope rather than despair in thinking about, living with, adapting to, and mitigating the (rapidly accelerating and almost certainly unpleasant) effects/impacts of climate change. I fully concede that neither book persuaded me - I'm just not there emotionally, intellectually, or philosophically ... at least not yet; but that doesn't mean they're wrong (and I'm glad they've staked out that position).
And, to be clear, I'd never heard of Lily Cole until recently. I don't really follow fashion, and I'm pretty sure I don't recognize her from her screen roles. I didn't even figure that out who she was until I'd purchased the book through a UK vendor (which, alas, was more difficult than I expected). Still, without losing sight of the content itself, ... and it's hard not to focus on the author's unique background ... this is a serious, lengthy, broadly researched, well written, highly accessible climate change book ... written by a former supermodel ... and actor. Is it unfair for me to deem that unexpected? Maybe, and I concede that I (like most readers) harbor innumerable biases. But, yeah, in the end, I was caught off guard. So, I guess I'm glad I bought the book without knowing anything about the author.
Is this the first climate change book I'd recommend? Absolutely not.
Having said that, I keep a running list of climate change book I'd recommend for different types of readers (from hard core non-fiction to serious sci-fi); and I think this book might appeal to folks who might be unwilling to buy, open, start, let alone wade through the books that most frequently percolate to the top of my list.
I found the book informative and easy to read, I appreciated the (literal) sidebars (which added color and context without resorting to footnotes or endnotes), and I was pleasantly pleased by the breadth of her coverage and ability to explain otherwise complex topics. It is also a personal and poignant and, well, at the end of the day, readable and interesting and engaging book.
I'm glad I read it.
Supplement ... or, in retrospect: Having thought about it, it dawns on me that I should mention that Cole's ultimate pitch is, in many ways, aligned with Kathryn Hayhoe's Saving Us, in advocating for hope rather than despair in thinking about, living with, adapting to, and mitigating the (rapidly accelerating and almost certainly unpleasant) effects/impacts of climate change. I fully concede that neither book persuaded me - I'm just not there emotionally, intellectually, or philosophically ... at least not yet; but that doesn't mean they're wrong (and I'm glad they've staked out that position).
July 2, 2020
'Who Cares Wins' was my introduction to Lily Cole's work and I absolutely adore this book. It's gorgeous written.
Lily in the book introduces us to various environmental and social concerns. The tone of the book is serious and caring. There is immense research involved in this book and it's a definite good pick for person of any age!
Lily in the book introduces us to various environmental and social concerns. The tone of the book is serious and caring. There is immense research involved in this book and it's a definite good pick for person of any age!
August 23, 2024
I thought this was a really well written and nicely put together book talking about our human actions and climate change are changing our world, and the danger this puts in humanity in but also outlines the ways in which things can be done to improve the situation, things people are already doing to pave the way in the green space and that under it all the world is mostly full of good people who want to do the right thing.
I don't think this brought anything new to me as I've read a few similar books but I would put this on par with David Attenbourough's A Life On Our Planet and Mary Robinson's Climate Justice in terms of tone and factual information without being too scaremongering.
I don't think this brought anything new to me as I've read a few similar books but I would put this on par with David Attenbourough's A Life On Our Planet and Mary Robinson's Climate Justice in terms of tone and factual information without being too scaremongering.
August 15, 2020
Balanced, positive, thoughtful, solution orientated. This is a book that 2020 needed.
June 11, 2020
Lily Cole is an influential name for any 80s or 90s baby who grew up with any modicum of interest in the fashion and beauty industries. Here she offers her grown-up take on global consumerism, and the multitudinous complex issues related to it, for those of us who have grown up in parallel to her and her career.
This book is careful, considered and never scared to confront the complicated. Through the lens of her own personal education, Cole offers well-researched and balanced insights into the changes that need to and are happening across the world. This means that Cole avoids a 'holier than thou' tone and instead invites her reader to join her in conversation and reflection. The book does not shy away from scary statistics, but in contrast to other works that propose it is 'all too late' this book motivates its reader by showing how tangible the impact of change can be.
Each chapter is split into small sub-sections with Cole's overarching personal narrative balanced out by more general (but not overused) facts and figures that are interspersed between paragraphs. This means that the text is utterly digestible and in no ways over-facing; perfect to be consumed on the commute or dipped in to during a coffee break.
This book is careful, considered and never scared to confront the complicated. Through the lens of her own personal education, Cole offers well-researched and balanced insights into the changes that need to and are happening across the world. This means that Cole avoids a 'holier than thou' tone and instead invites her reader to join her in conversation and reflection. The book does not shy away from scary statistics, but in contrast to other works that propose it is 'all too late' this book motivates its reader by showing how tangible the impact of change can be.
Each chapter is split into small sub-sections with Cole's overarching personal narrative balanced out by more general (but not overused) facts and figures that are interspersed between paragraphs. This means that the text is utterly digestible and in no ways over-facing; perfect to be consumed on the commute or dipped in to during a coffee break.
July 5, 2020
In an uncertain world this is an optimistic book with a wide scope looking at positive ways to counter the crises humanity is facing. Cole writes with clarity and warmth about the challenges we are facing, and the book is a great jumping off point for deeper research into the changes we can all make to save our planet and our children's futures.
March 26, 2022
When I opened this book, I had very high expectations. I wanted something comprehensive and well researched about the complexities of the intertangled multitude of problems that are causing the current mass extinction we are causing and the next generations will be killed by. I wanted to know more about the problems and solutions that I already know quite a bit about, so I didn’t want to be talked down to. I didn’t even remember that it was supposed to have an optimistic tone because that was not on my list of requirements. It was all that I’d hoped it would be. I don’t remember how many people she said she interviewed for this book, but whatever she says, I believe her. There are dozens of points of view represented so the handling of complexity with diversity never comes across as condescending. There is so much to take in that it may require more than one reading. It’s a shame it’s not available on CD. The cover of the book I read was orange, black, and white, and I couldn’t find that represented here.
January 9, 2024
"A lot of people care.
When armed with information, I would say most, if not all, people care. Because not to care is to accept a premature death, and life is so interesting."
When armed with information, I would say most, if not all, people care. Because not to care is to accept a premature death, and life is so interesting."
June 26, 2020
As always this review can also be found with many other on my bog: https://livemanylives.wordpress.com/
Who Cares Wins is a comprehensive look at how our lives impact the planet and how we can seek to respond to the challenges of the climate emergency that we face. It looks at every day-to-day aspect of our lives, from food and fashion to travel and shelter, and the range of responses that are being considered by man, some simple and some rooted in the world of science fiction.
The scope of the writing is enormous, drawing inspiration from the creative wealth of Silicon Valley, the natural simplicity of Walden Pond and almost everything in between. What strikes me most about the book is how messy the world is and how few of our decisions are black and white. We live in a world of grey that we must navigate with hope and humility.
That is an important aspect in the way that the author has approached her topic. A very broad spectrum of thought and ideas has been investigated but they are presented without the pressure for a dualistic judgment of right and wrong. The reader is encouraged to engage with all of the ideas and all of the possible futures and then respond in the way appropriate to them.
Should we look to a new wave of technology to allow us to do the things we do without damaging the environment? Should we remove ourselves from the present technologically driven consumerist society that has caused the damage? What can we learn by listening to ancient indigenous cultures that have for many years been attacked by Western colonialism? How does gender influence the way we live and can we balance masculine and feminine to break the historic patriarchy that has promoted competitive destruction?
Cole is clear that the route to a more sustainable humanity and to a future that combines the limits of the planet with adventurous, expressive human life will not be found through force. It is up to all of us to reflect and look inside to forge our own voluntary and empowered path, in light of the situation we find ourselves in individually and collectively.
Of course, the danger there is that we take the lazy route of not engaging at all, we miss the opportunity for inner contemplation and sleepwalk into continued destruction, but even there we have hope in the regenerative capabilities of nature to move on without us. Who Cares Wins is an invitation to be the best that we can be, working out a future that is collaborative, creative, inclusive and joyful and is one of my favourite books of the year so far.
Who Cares Wins is a comprehensive look at how our lives impact the planet and how we can seek to respond to the challenges of the climate emergency that we face. It looks at every day-to-day aspect of our lives, from food and fashion to travel and shelter, and the range of responses that are being considered by man, some simple and some rooted in the world of science fiction.
The scope of the writing is enormous, drawing inspiration from the creative wealth of Silicon Valley, the natural simplicity of Walden Pond and almost everything in between. What strikes me most about the book is how messy the world is and how few of our decisions are black and white. We live in a world of grey that we must navigate with hope and humility.
That is an important aspect in the way that the author has approached her topic. A very broad spectrum of thought and ideas has been investigated but they are presented without the pressure for a dualistic judgment of right and wrong. The reader is encouraged to engage with all of the ideas and all of the possible futures and then respond in the way appropriate to them.
Should we look to a new wave of technology to allow us to do the things we do without damaging the environment? Should we remove ourselves from the present technologically driven consumerist society that has caused the damage? What can we learn by listening to ancient indigenous cultures that have for many years been attacked by Western colonialism? How does gender influence the way we live and can we balance masculine and feminine to break the historic patriarchy that has promoted competitive destruction?
Cole is clear that the route to a more sustainable humanity and to a future that combines the limits of the planet with adventurous, expressive human life will not be found through force. It is up to all of us to reflect and look inside to forge our own voluntary and empowered path, in light of the situation we find ourselves in individually and collectively.
Of course, the danger there is that we take the lazy route of not engaging at all, we miss the opportunity for inner contemplation and sleepwalk into continued destruction, but even there we have hope in the regenerative capabilities of nature to move on without us. Who Cares Wins is an invitation to be the best that we can be, working out a future that is collaborative, creative, inclusive and joyful and is one of my favourite books of the year so far.
July 30, 2020
Who Cares Wins takes a comprehensive look at climate change and the devastating impact humans are having on the planet. Cole opens the book on a note of inspiration and empowerment that rings throughout. She appreciates that optimism is essential for positive change and urges us to know that the future predicted by statisticians is not written in stone; we have the power to shape it.
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Cole tackles some of the main contributors to pollution such as fast fashion, food production and waste. The scope of her writing is vast and highly researched. Cole addresses consumer capitalism and our detrimental obsession with the new, better and convenient. Cole is aware that these issues are not black and white and provides a balanced argument to each topic. This welcomes the reader to weigh up the positive and negatives and come to their own conclusion.
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Cole’s research brings her to meet with many influential people including Stella McCartney, David Attenborough and the CEO of a biotechnology company. She assisted in creating a new non-plastic glasses company and had the opportunity to travel to Ghana to see women make fairtrade shea butter. These experiences provide an added richness and credibility to Cole’s writing.
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Plenty of shock statistics are peppered throughout but Cole makes these easy to digest with the added positivity of what already has been achieved with the passing of laws and future set goals. Who Cares Wins is a timely and optimistic reminder that there are many ways for people to make positive changes both collectively and individually.
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I’m very grateful to Penguin Life Books for a gifted proof copy in exchange for an honest review.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Cole tackles some of the main contributors to pollution such as fast fashion, food production and waste. The scope of her writing is vast and highly researched. Cole addresses consumer capitalism and our detrimental obsession with the new, better and convenient. Cole is aware that these issues are not black and white and provides a balanced argument to each topic. This welcomes the reader to weigh up the positive and negatives and come to their own conclusion.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Cole’s research brings her to meet with many influential people including Stella McCartney, David Attenborough and the CEO of a biotechnology company. She assisted in creating a new non-plastic glasses company and had the opportunity to travel to Ghana to see women make fairtrade shea butter. These experiences provide an added richness and credibility to Cole’s writing.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Plenty of shock statistics are peppered throughout but Cole makes these easy to digest with the added positivity of what already has been achieved with the passing of laws and future set goals. Who Cares Wins is a timely and optimistic reminder that there are many ways for people to make positive changes both collectively and individually.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
I’m very grateful to Penguin Life Books for a gifted proof copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 2, 2025
"The way you eat becomes the way you think. [...] When you are eating fast food, you are digesting the values that come with the food — the idea that it's okay to eat in your car, the idea that more is better, the idea that time is money, the ideas that cooking and farming are drudgery. These ideas all come from a fast food industry that wants you to forget about the seasons, wants you to believe you can have anything, any time, anywhere in the world. These are the ideas that are destroying the planet, and our human values." (I.2)
August 16, 2021
Anyone insensitive enough to play “dress up” in an Afghan burqa this week should not be giving anyone advice on social justice.
I’m genuinely astounded by either her ignorance or just complete thoughtlessness : https://www.instagram.com/lilycole/?h...
Maybe the ghost writer has better sensitivity. We can only hope.
I’m genuinely astounded by either her ignorance or just complete thoughtlessness : https://www.instagram.com/lilycole/?h...
Maybe the ghost writer has better sensitivity. We can only hope.
December 8, 2021
Lily Cole has done some pretty inspiring things and this book is just one of them!!
July 19, 2020
This book! I need to talk about this book. There are scientists, inventors and even brand new kinds of bacteria doing incredible things out there right now that I had no idea about!!!
We are told, almost constantly, how destructive our actions and purchasing decisions are to the environment and future of our planet. For good reason, of course. But where is the practical, measurable or even achievable advice to follow it?
Everything seems to come with added problems. Switch to plant-based dairy products but the packaging won’t biodegrade and the process will use too much water. Switch to an electric car but a lot more energy and materials are needed in its manufacture. Don’t take long haul flights but trains are slower, much more expensive and unreliable. Apple has some of the best green offices around but their products need replacing every few years. Where are the better solutions, where are the humans kicking ass and already working on better solutions?
They’re in this book. For real.
This book is a very, VERY welcome, highly-researched masterpiece into what COULD save not only our planet, but potentially humanity. If we listen and support the right ideas.
It covers a huge amount of important topics. From obvious ones like food consumption, waste disposal and travel methods, to less obvious ones like community, working hours, the media, and artificial intelligence.
It’s an uncomfortable read, full of truly shocking statistics, but it’s also the absolute best at injecting hope into the wound straight after too. Laws ARE being changed. And solid goals with dates ARE being set.
Favourite quote: Apocalypse has long haunted our imaginations, like a burning shadow. Yet it is not just the artists, mystics or zealots who are raising the alarm. This time, it’s the scientists.
Who Cares Wins will be released at the end of July and, in my humble opinion, I think it should be added to every school curriculum!
My only reason for deducting a star is that I felt in a couple of places Cole diverted away from the main issue. Don’t get me wrong, feminism and mental health are incredibly, incredibly important issues too, but I’d much rather buy another book (preferably by Cole!) about these topics. Can’t wait to see what incredible things come next!
We are told, almost constantly, how destructive our actions and purchasing decisions are to the environment and future of our planet. For good reason, of course. But where is the practical, measurable or even achievable advice to follow it?
Everything seems to come with added problems. Switch to plant-based dairy products but the packaging won’t biodegrade and the process will use too much water. Switch to an electric car but a lot more energy and materials are needed in its manufacture. Don’t take long haul flights but trains are slower, much more expensive and unreliable. Apple has some of the best green offices around but their products need replacing every few years. Where are the better solutions, where are the humans kicking ass and already working on better solutions?
They’re in this book. For real.
This book is a very, VERY welcome, highly-researched masterpiece into what COULD save not only our planet, but potentially humanity. If we listen and support the right ideas.
It covers a huge amount of important topics. From obvious ones like food consumption, waste disposal and travel methods, to less obvious ones like community, working hours, the media, and artificial intelligence.
It’s an uncomfortable read, full of truly shocking statistics, but it’s also the absolute best at injecting hope into the wound straight after too. Laws ARE being changed. And solid goals with dates ARE being set.
Favourite quote: Apocalypse has long haunted our imaginations, like a burning shadow. Yet it is not just the artists, mystics or zealots who are raising the alarm. This time, it’s the scientists.
Who Cares Wins will be released at the end of July and, in my humble opinion, I think it should be added to every school curriculum!
My only reason for deducting a star is that I felt in a couple of places Cole diverted away from the main issue. Don’t get me wrong, feminism and mental health are incredibly, incredibly important issues too, but I’d much rather buy another book (preferably by Cole!) about these topics. Can’t wait to see what incredible things come next!
December 31, 2024
I can‘t believe it took me literally almost five months to finish this book lol. Don’t get me wrong, it wasn’t bad at all, I just kept picking up other books in between…
February 11, 2021
Wow! I was not expecting this book to be so deep, detailed, and truthful! It was thus a pleasurable surprise to find that it is not a manifesto per se, but a tagging of every type of technology and advancements going on out there in so many different fields, in order to make Earth a better place for our children but also for us, too, as many of these advancements could probably happen in our own lifetime, especially for those of us around the same age as the author and our own kids.
The only peeve I have with this book is that it didn't delve into the world of beauty and skincare and makeup - water use is a huge deal in those industries, and with the move already to bar shampoos and the like, or waterless skincare - it kinda felt that this could've been covered as well because in no world can I see us as people giving up our skincare and beauty products and makeup
Still, this is an immense work of research and one I feel the author should definitely be commended for!
The only peeve I have with this book is that it didn't delve into the world of beauty and skincare and makeup - water use is a huge deal in those industries, and with the move already to bar shampoos and the like, or waterless skincare - it kinda felt that this could've been covered as well because in no world can I see us as people giving up our skincare and beauty products and makeup
Still, this is an immense work of research and one I feel the author should definitely be commended for!
October 26, 2020
Although the author has demonstrated she is extremely knowledgeable about the subject matter, the premise of the book is unclear and disjointed. There are too many moving parts and she flits from one subject to the next. It's more like diary entries or a series of very short essays. I found myself skimming through most of it due to the incongruity.
She quotes from many important works and having read many of them I didn't learn that much new information. Since climate change and sustainability is such a broad subject, I find books that focus on one facet of the problem are more worthwhile. Though if you're new to the topic, this may be a good start to see which aspect you're most interested in!
She quotes from many important works and having read many of them I didn't learn that much new information. Since climate change and sustainability is such a broad subject, I find books that focus on one facet of the problem are more worthwhile. Though if you're new to the topic, this may be a good start to see which aspect you're most interested in!
June 26, 2020
I'm sorry to say that I found this a rather rambling read - possibly more suited to a series of blog posts than a book.
The book covers a multitude of green and ethical consumer and societal issues; each positive solution seems to have a minus, but other solutions are mentioned as "in development", so perhaps there is cause for some optimism.
The author is obviously an intelligent and caring person, and has done plenty of research. However I had some issues with some of the statistics quoted as they don't match other sources I have read.
All that said, it's still worth a read.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for an ARC. All opinions my own.
The book covers a multitude of green and ethical consumer and societal issues; each positive solution seems to have a minus, but other solutions are mentioned as "in development", so perhaps there is cause for some optimism.
The author is obviously an intelligent and caring person, and has done plenty of research. However I had some issues with some of the statistics quoted as they don't match other sources I have read.
All that said, it's still worth a read.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for an ARC. All opinions my own.
October 8, 2020
If you only read one more book in 2020, make it this one. Who Cares Wins is a thought-provoking, optimistic book about how every one of us has the power to help create a better world - from climate change and sustainability, to social justice. We can all have a positive impact and help change things, just from making different, more conscious decisions in our daily lives.
An invitation to all of us to reflect and do our part to make a better world, Who Cares Wins is an engaging read and a positive and solution-oriented consideration of how we negotiate a dark and uncertain future with hope and humility.
With thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC.
An invitation to all of us to reflect and do our part to make a better world, Who Cares Wins is an engaging read and a positive and solution-oriented consideration of how we negotiate a dark and uncertain future with hope and humility.
With thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC.
November 15, 2020
Started off very well, but then started to meander a bit and got a bit boring tbh.
February 13, 2021
Reflections and lessons learned:
“Pessimism of the intellect, optimism of the will... Share, care, and always tell the truth”
I chose this book as was interested on the topic from Cole’s perspective, and as it had the word optimism in the title, but was unsure of what to expect... it didn’t start well for me...
I started this book with the view oh no...
Ooo, a plate of hubris please for the phrase we could be the first generation to avert a world crisis... why do humans believe that they’re larger than the planet that lets us live on it... control freakery to the max like standing up at a party and taking praise for a mass produced drink that they didn’t manufacture... gah!
But in the turn proud from every classic Disney film, the more I listened the more I could see how Cole has considered and loved this. Energy dispersion, 3D transport plans for more air and underground speed options, realistic troubles with carbon offsetting, air diamonds and algae blooms, undersea walls and planet hacks, economics, sexism, ownership, reconciliation, attitudes around giving. So much covered but not for the sake of showing a right-on agenda, as everything contained is all related and relatable. Did I agree with all points made? No, but at no point did I find myself shaking my head in disbelief as Cole gently described things with such balance and, as the book said, optimism. At last a book that deals with difficult environmental problems without blaming and instead trying to find solutions. Truly unexpectedly awesome
“Not to care is to accept an early death... and life is interesting... We can each pull out a weed or two to do what we can”
“Pessimism of the intellect, optimism of the will... Share, care, and always tell the truth”
I chose this book as was interested on the topic from Cole’s perspective, and as it had the word optimism in the title, but was unsure of what to expect... it didn’t start well for me...
I started this book with the view oh no...
Ooo, a plate of hubris please for the phrase we could be the first generation to avert a world crisis... why do humans believe that they’re larger than the planet that lets us live on it... control freakery to the max like standing up at a party and taking praise for a mass produced drink that they didn’t manufacture... gah!
But in the turn proud from every classic Disney film, the more I listened the more I could see how Cole has considered and loved this. Energy dispersion, 3D transport plans for more air and underground speed options, realistic troubles with carbon offsetting, air diamonds and algae blooms, undersea walls and planet hacks, economics, sexism, ownership, reconciliation, attitudes around giving. So much covered but not for the sake of showing a right-on agenda, as everything contained is all related and relatable. Did I agree with all points made? No, but at no point did I find myself shaking my head in disbelief as Cole gently described things with such balance and, as the book said, optimism. At last a book that deals with difficult environmental problems without blaming and instead trying to find solutions. Truly unexpectedly awesome
“Not to care is to accept an early death... and life is interesting... We can each pull out a weed or two to do what we can”
November 11, 2020
This book is so much better than I expected. If I'm honest, I thought it would be fairly generic self-help, but it is actually a really well-researched and well-written exploration of what can be done to improve the world, with regards to both small and large scale problems.
Yes, there are sections that are uncomfortable, and upsetting, but these sections are followed up with ideas for real solutions that could actually be viable, rather than just being a depressing dump of information about how bad things are. However, this books also isn't even remotely preachy - instead, the reader is provided with both perspectives, and encouraged to come to their own conclusion. This made it really interesting, and also made it feel like you as an individual could do things to help: something which is rare in these sorts of books. All in all, a really interesting and thought-provoking read, that offers genuine and well-researched actions to take to target a range of problems.
Disclaimer - I was fortunate enough to be provided with an advance reading copy of this book by NetGalley. This has not affected my review in any way, and all opinions are my own.
Yes, there are sections that are uncomfortable, and upsetting, but these sections are followed up with ideas for real solutions that could actually be viable, rather than just being a depressing dump of information about how bad things are. However, this books also isn't even remotely preachy - instead, the reader is provided with both perspectives, and encouraged to come to their own conclusion. This made it really interesting, and also made it feel like you as an individual could do things to help: something which is rare in these sorts of books. All in all, a really interesting and thought-provoking read, that offers genuine and well-researched actions to take to target a range of problems.
Disclaimer - I was fortunate enough to be provided with an advance reading copy of this book by NetGalley. This has not affected my review in any way, and all opinions are my own.
July 21, 2020
Who Cares Wins is thought provoking book about some of the most challenging issues that are facing the world & challenges the reader to respond to them in some way, however small.
It is a book that covers the expected climate change, food waste & whether flying is always bad – but also less obvious ones such as the importance of community, working hours & the media. For each topic, “both sides of the argument” were explored in depth – the reader is encouraged to explore the positives and negatives and come to their own conclusions. I really appreciated this approach as it was like having a discussion/chat with the author or a group of friends. It was a bit rambling and choppy in places but the abundance of quotes & margin notes (these need to be improved in the kindle version) add credibility to the text.
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book free from the publisher via NetGalley. Whilst thanks go to the publisher & author for the opportunity to read it, all opinions are my own.
It is a book that covers the expected climate change, food waste & whether flying is always bad – but also less obvious ones such as the importance of community, working hours & the media. For each topic, “both sides of the argument” were explored in depth – the reader is encouraged to explore the positives and negatives and come to their own conclusions. I really appreciated this approach as it was like having a discussion/chat with the author or a group of friends. It was a bit rambling and choppy in places but the abundance of quotes & margin notes (these need to be improved in the kindle version) add credibility to the text.
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book free from the publisher via NetGalley. Whilst thanks go to the publisher & author for the opportunity to read it, all opinions are my own.
January 15, 2022
If ignorance is bliss, and knowledge is power, then power is responsibility. I believe this book exists for an important reason, and Lily Cole wrote it because she has had the experiences and growth that come with the power of seeing the world in a way that most won’t ever have the chance to, so she’s using this power to spread the wisdom of provoking change. Change for climate change, change for feminism, change for all of humanity to be better where and when we can.
There’s so much value in this book, but it’s also incredibly convoluted. Cole touches a number of complex issues that reads a bit like a frog jumping from one petal to another as they please; the frog likes it and is familiar with all the petals in its pond, but to an outsider it can be hard to follow why the frog jumped petals so quickly.
I do feel smarter having read this book because there’s so much I didn’t know about before, and it makes me want to be a better person. I want to strive to be more sustainable and consumer conscious going forward, and to remember even small individual change can have an impact.
There’s so much value in this book, but it’s also incredibly convoluted. Cole touches a number of complex issues that reads a bit like a frog jumping from one petal to another as they please; the frog likes it and is familiar with all the petals in its pond, but to an outsider it can be hard to follow why the frog jumped petals so quickly.
I do feel smarter having read this book because there’s so much I didn’t know about before, and it makes me want to be a better person. I want to strive to be more sustainable and consumer conscious going forward, and to remember even small individual change can have an impact.
August 25, 2020
Who Cares Wins felt like a dissertation on the state of the world and what you and I can do ourselves, and what needs to be done by people with power, to save it. However, it felt a little longer than it needed to be, there was reiteration and doubling back, subjects that came up before would come up again but in a completely different section. It felt like it needed one more edit or tidy up.
However, Lily Cole writes well and certainly has many suggestions for how we can 'do our bit'. Although she can't set out a grand master plan she did make me think about what I do that impacts the world, and what I can change. It's well researched and presents many points of view. Though she has ideas about what she might do she gives us all the information we need to make our own decisions.
This would probably be a 3.5 truly, due to its somewhat untidy nature, but given it's trying to save the world, of course it gets rounded up.
However, Lily Cole writes well and certainly has many suggestions for how we can 'do our bit'. Although she can't set out a grand master plan she did make me think about what I do that impacts the world, and what I can change. It's well researched and presents many points of view. Though she has ideas about what she might do she gives us all the information we need to make our own decisions.
This would probably be a 3.5 truly, due to its somewhat untidy nature, but given it's trying to save the world, of course it gets rounded up.
July 19, 2020
How we can all have a tangible impact through action? Lily's simple words explain how we can do things differently and why we should. Lily Cole is well-educated and level-headed about the issues, which include positive thoughts on how we can all change the future.
It is written conversationally too, like having an extended discussion with Lily - not a lecture, but a chat interspersed with frogs jumping out of hot water a bit of swearing and the premise that living is petrochemical.
Cole has the advantage of access; she can sit in a cafe in San Francisco to meet the CEO of a biotech company, or assist in the creation of a new no-plastic glasses company. That's a kind of privilege, but it's one that Lily doesn't appear to squander, instead signing up for various thoughtful and righteous initiatives.
I enjoyed the read which left my thoughts buzzing.
It is written conversationally too, like having an extended discussion with Lily - not a lecture, but a chat interspersed with frogs jumping out of hot water a bit of swearing and the premise that living is petrochemical.
Cole has the advantage of access; she can sit in a cafe in San Francisco to meet the CEO of a biotech company, or assist in the creation of a new no-plastic glasses company. That's a kind of privilege, but it's one that Lily doesn't appear to squander, instead signing up for various thoughtful and righteous initiatives.
I enjoyed the read which left my thoughts buzzing.
July 14, 2020
I'm sorry to say that I found this a rather rambling read - possibly more suited to a series of blog posts than a book.
The book covers a multitude of green and ethical consumer and societal issues; each positive solution seems to have a minus, but other solutions are mentioned as "in development", so perhaps there is cause for some optimism.
The author is obviously an intelligent and caring person, and has done plenty of research. However I had some issues with some of the statistics quoted as they don't match other sources I have read.
All that said, it's still worth a read.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for an ARC. All opinions my own.
The book covers a multitude of green and ethical consumer and societal issues; each positive solution seems to have a minus, but other solutions are mentioned as "in development", so perhaps there is cause for some optimism.
The author is obviously an intelligent and caring person, and has done plenty of research. However I had some issues with some of the statistics quoted as they don't match other sources I have read.
All that said, it's still worth a read.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for an ARC. All opinions my own.
April 21, 2021
An excellent read. Covers in breadth and depth nearly all eco areas you'll be interested in, from products, services, to the economy. Each chapter is lengthy and covers the specific subject in depth, if an area doesn't particularly interest you stick with it or speed read it, the next chapter may grab you.
Lily Cole is very well informed and this comes out with details and facts that don't drown you. She also tries hard to take a neutral stance and accepts the problems we have with moving from what we have and do now to what we need to do in future. I appreciated that practical honest aspect of her writing.
Lily Cole is very well informed and this comes out with details and facts that don't drown you. She also tries hard to take a neutral stance and accepts the problems we have with moving from what we have and do now to what we need to do in future. I appreciated that practical honest aspect of her writing.
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