🌍 Earth & Air
In a Changing World
ISBN: 978-0-9969446-7-0
📚 NEW! In a Changing World
Book 3 of the Four Elements Climate Trilogy
Four connected adventures.
One changing planet.
One unforgettable journey.
Coming September 2026
From monarch butterflies searching for new migration routes, to hurricane-surviving anoles in the Caribbean, brown bears adapting in Alaska, and mysteries hidden among the Joshua trees of the desert, these interconnected adventures explore how wildlife—and people—respond when the world around them changes.
Filled with mystery, science, courage, and hope, In a Changing World invites readers ages 10–14 to become EcoDetectives, discovering that even young people can make a difference when they work together to protect the natural world.
Because climate change isn't just a story about challenges—it's a story about resilience, adaptation, and the power of hope.
Four species. One planet. A future still worth fighting for.
Reviews
Review of In a Changing World by Claire Datnow, August 22, 2026
On a stormy Caribbean island, a young scientist discovers that the anoles he’s documenting are changing even as he investigates them. Meanwhile, a brave young naturalist living in Alaska observes some unusual behavior in the state’s Kodiak bears. Out in California, a video game enthusiast makes a thrilling discovery about his state’s beloved Joshua Trees. Finally, two young girls, separated by distance but joined in passion, uncover a pattern behind the changing flight path of migrating Monarch butterflies. In Claire Datnow’s four part “cli-fi” novel, In a Changing World, we follow the adventures of five budding scientists as they not only chase down mysteries but learn that their actions can make a positive difference for the future.
Young readers will recognize themselves in Datnow’s main characters. Children are stalwart purveyors of justice and will doggedly chase what they believe is right. Datnow’s characters embody this passion. Children are curious; children are tireless; children squabble with their peers and their parents, and so do Datnow’s characters. Datnow writes lovingly yet realistically about her young heroes and the challenges they face, from teenage insecurities to a father missing in a storm at sea.
These four stories may involve different characters and situations, but they are woven together with a strong thread: the effects of climate change are acting upon our planet before our very eyes. Datnow’s Alvin, Alice, Josh, Mari, and Dana are determined to make a difference in their communities, and maybe in the world at large.
In the vein of Mr. Rogers often quoted advice, “Look for the helpers,” Datnow’s heroes find willing adults who assist them in navigating their adventures. The adults are portrayed as intelligent and calm, and importantly, they never condescend. The relationship between Datnow’s adult helpers and the youngsters they shepherd is poignant and hopeful. These fictional adults are exceptional examples of the kinds of grown-ups our children benefit by including in their lives.
Throughout this novel’s page-turning adventures, readers will come to learn a treasure trove of information about the real stars of the novel: the anoles, Kodiak bears, Joshua trees, and Monarch butterflies. They will also learn about weather systems, alternative energy, scientific practices, and the fine art of arguing from evidence.
In a Changing World is an excellent addition to any bookshelf. Environmental champions and readers brand-new to the concept of climate change will enjoy these four exciting tales and come away freshly inspired and hopeful about the future.
Mary Dansak Alabama Master Naturalist and retired science education specialist
author of Box Turtles, Hooligans, and Love Sweet Love, and Behold: Essays Into Wonder