John writes op-eds championing conservative policies. Autumn was raised in a religious fundamentalist community and was taught creationism instead of evolution. Lance is a law student who thinks Donald Trump is too moderate. Casey once lectured her sixth-grade class on why global warming wasn’t real. What do all of these people have in common? They’ve changed their minds on climate change and come to view it as a serious, human-caused threat that requires action.

In Climate Converts, Jo Huxster tells the stories of eight people who have made the shift from climate denialists to climate believers and even activists. By looking at the issue from their perspectives, this book offers vital insight into what changes minds—and what doesn’t. Facts alone are not enough. Beliefs about climate are rooted in identity and community, so personal connection, emotion, and willingness to listen outweigh debate tactics. Finding key principles in each protagonist’s narrative, Huxster shares an experience-backed guide to having necessary conversations about climate change.

This book weaves together storytelling and social science into actionable, relatable lessons for anyone who knows a climate denier, is concerned about the future of our planet, or finds themselves questioning their own beliefs.

Jo Huxster is an associate professor of environmental studies at Eckerd College who specializes in climate change communication and public understanding of science.