It’s easy to feel disheartened—sometimes even despondent—about the state of the world. News cycles amplify problems rather than solutions, deepening the sense of division and hopelessness. That’s why we need books like Glimpses of Utopia by Jess Scully.
A Mum, former Deputy Lord Mayor of the City of Sydney, climate and social justice advocate, Jess offers an urgent yet hopeful vision of the future—one where justice, sustainability, and inclusivity are not just ideals, they are realities. Writing this book while caring for her infant daughter, Jess grappled with the kind of world she was bringing her child into, particularly in the wake of the devastating 2019/20 Black Summer bushfires. Her reflections are deeply personal yet universally resonant.
Through insightful conversations with changemakers across the globe, Jess shares transformative ideas that reimagine politics, economics, and community life. These solutions, grounded in care, connection, collaboration and First Nations wisdom, offer a roadmap for the systemic shifts we so urgently need.
What struck me most was the glaring absence of imagination in most political leadership. While policymakers often seem stuck in outdated models, innovation flourishes in communities—especially among the most marginalized. History has shown time and again that human ingenuity thrives in times of crisis, and Glimpses of Utopia reminds us that change is not only possible but already happening.
Listening to the audiobook, narrated by Jess herself, felt like sitting with a friend—one who acknowledges the mess we are in, yet refuses to let hopelessness win. As I was coming to the end of the book, considering all the inspiring examples that had been shared, I couldn’t help thinking about one of my favourite quotes from another fabulous author Arundhati Roy -“Another world is not only possible, she is on her way. On a quiet day, I can hear her breathing.”
This book is a gift for those of us who are keeping hopeful for our kids and offers a powerful call to action—one that urges us to embrace our creativity, courage, and collective care as we build a better future together.
You can find out more about Glimpses of Utopia here
P.S. We extend a very warm welcome and our heartfelt appreciation to Jess who has recently joined the volunteer leadership team at the Inner West Sydney Parents for Climate group