When the Earth Died

“When the Earth Died” by Peter Routis won the International Impact Book Award in the “Contemporary Fiction; Literary Fiction” category in April 2025.

Synopsis: “When the Earth Died”

“When the Earth Died” is a narrative that follows the life of Orson and Niles in a post-apocalyptic, dystopian world (2049), where the world has been ravaged by fires, environmental collapse, societal breakdown, climate change and disease, which have drastically altered life on Earth. The story delves into themes of survival, loss, hope, the devastated human condition and the existence (or the absence) of God. It explores themes of environmental destruction and human responsibility. Orson, Niles, Ciara and her son Kolten struggle to survive this harsh new reality. ​They build a shelter, grow food, and navigate the dangers posed by both nature and human threats. They reflect on their pasts and strive to find meaning and stability in their disrupted lives as they navigate through the ruins of their world, dealing with personal loss, survival, the search for loved ones and the bonds of family. ​ Orson is a reflective character who contemplates the destruction of nature and their dismal human condition. Niles is driven by the hope of finding his sister, Aberdeen, who was separated from him during a catastrophic fire that destroyed their town and family. The narrative explores themes of grief, survival, the impact of human actions on nature, and the quest for meaning and connection in a devastated world.