In Parable of the Sower, a California ravaged by fires continues a climate change future that is now a reality. In the 1993 speculative fiction classic, American Science Fiction author Octavia E. Butlerwho lived in nearby Altadena, predicted the catastrophic fires in Los Angeles.
The Afrofuturist’s grave rests in Altadena, which was hit hard by recent fires that left thousands of Californians homeless. But his burial site has survived: the P.A. shared an image of the location and reported that it had “minimal damage,” citing a statement on the Altadena Mountain View Cemetery website. Butler died in 2006 and her cornerstone reads: “Everything you touch, you change.” Everything you change changes you,” a quote from Parable of the sower.
Altadena, who CBS News described as “a historically black community”, is now working to rebuild it. Octavia’s Librarya Pasadena bookstore named in honor of the inspiring author, is a hub of activity that works tirelessly to support Butler’s beloved Los Angeles enclave. For more information on how to help with relief efforts, visit here.
Watch the interview below with Nikki High, owner of Octavia’s Bookshelf, about the work they do and the importance of Altadena as a great American city that should be preserved and not taken over by real estate capitalists.
Want more io9 news? Find out when to expect the latest news Wonder, Star WarsAnd Star Trek exits, what is the next step for the DC Universe in cinema and televisionand everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.