Creeksong

A spirited elder recounts her activist journey to confront the terrors of climate change



In 1990, the International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) released its first Assessment Report. By then, award-winning urban planner Wendy Sarkissian had been singing the climate blues for years. Her colleagues dismiss her fears, so she abandons urban life for a solitary retreat to reconsider her professional and activist directions. With no bush skills, this terrified novice confronts many challenges during her harsh, year-long adventure in the Australian outback. As weeks pass, however, she discovers wellsprings of courage. Later, she hears her rainforest singing as she rests in a tiny creek. She returns to city life to pursue a doctorate in environmental ethics. With her commitment and energy rekindled, she sings her Creeksong in the service of the Earth.



The healing messages flowing from this spirited elder's soulful memoir will inspire readers from all generations. As we raise our voices to sing our climate blues, we may confront despair, unlock wellsprings of courage, and commit ourselves to the care and protection of our Earth. Inspired by this fervent elder, we may also experience the blessing of healing generational wounds.