Worldbuilding Better (or Worse) Worlds - with Grist

Why is humanity able to imagine these fictional worlds, yet still struggle to believe our own can change? Learn from professional 'world builders' about sparking people's imagination for change. Moderated by Tory Stephens, who leads Grist's Climate Fiction program 'Imagine 2200: Climate Fiction for Future Ancestors', our panel of novelists will answer key questions. Where do writers find the raw materials for imagined futures? Why are utopias so much rarer than dystopias in fiction? How can we all learn the tools of worldbuilding? The conversation will span history, climate, hope, and the practical craft of making an invented world feel real. The session also celebrates the US launch of Solitaire Townsend’s Godstorm, set in an alternative history where the Roman Empire discovered fossil fuels, never fell, and has spent two thousand years burning its way to modernity. Following the main session, book signings will take place. Speakers include: Tory Stephens, Climate Fiction Creative Manager & Network Weaver, Grist Solitaire Townsend, debut novelist Jo Piazza, bestselling novelist