Jon Pepper’s new novel “Missy’s Twitch” is a captivating and thought-provoking exploration of the convergence of personal anxiety and global warming concerns.
The author skillfully weaves together a narrative that delves into the complexities of climate change activism, societal anxieties, and the power of media influence.
Despite being an imagined novel, the story contains more facts than fiction, which can make for a truly boisterous ride.
The story’s premise, set in present-day New York City grappling with the imaginary “consequences” of climate change, immediately draws readers into a world that feels both eerily familiar and frighteningly prescient.
The portrayal of rolling brownouts, climate countdown clocks, and the rise of climate therapists treating eco-anxiety adds depth to the narrative, highlighting the “emotional toll” of environmental concerns on NYC’s more well-heeled denizens.
At the heart of the story is Missy Mayburn Crowe, a likable protagonist whose internal struggle mirrors the broader societal anxiety infecting our culture.
Missy’s journey from the heiress of a fossil fuel fortune to a symbol of the newly created social contagion “climatosis” is both poignant, relatable, and all too familiar.
Her involuntary twitch becomes a powerful allegory of the overwhelming anxiety provoked by the media, activist scientists, and some truly backbiting villains, wrapped in the unshakeable belief of catastrophic climate change.
What truly makes “Missy’s Twitch” shine is its ability to shed light on the complexities of our modern world and climate change without the usual hectoring.
Instead, Mr. Pepper does an excellent job of showcasing how individuals are thrust into the spotlight and exploited for various agendas, be it political, media-driven, or opportunistic, without concern for facts or data.
Missy’s story also serves as a stark reminder of the power of social media and the rapid spread of ideas in today’s interconnected world.
Overall, “Missy’s Twitch” is a thought-provoking and timely read that tackles important issues with sensitivity and nuance. It engages readers on a personal and societal level, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of climate change, mental health, and the media’s influence.
The author’s storytelling prowess keeps readers captivated from start to finish, with crisp dialogue and engaging characters, making Missy’s Twitch a compelling addition to Mr. Pepper’s book series, “Fossil Feuds.”
