The Heat Will Kill You First

The Heat Will Kill You First (2023) warns that extreme heatwaves are becoming more common and will dramatically alter life as we know it – they’re an existential danger. Rising temperatures are already changing the planet, shortening seasons and intensifying disasters. Drawing on scientific research and reportage, it argues that intensifying heat will expose societal fault lines and threaten our communities in dire new ways. Extreme heat may be the most serious threat humanity has ever faced.

• Concerned citizens who want to know more about the effects of climate change
• Policymakers who need to understand the social implications of intensifying heatwaves
• Environmental activists seeking evidence to convey the urgency of climate action

Jeff Goodell is an award-winning journalist and author. His previous book, The Water Will Come, was named a New York Times Critics Top Book in 2017. He’s covered climate issues for over two decades at Rolling Stone where he’s a contributing editor. He’s also appeared on major media outlets such as NPR, CNN, and MSNBC. His other works include Big Coal and How to Cool the Planet.