The global climate system in seven easy lessons—an essential primer on the science that shapes our world

Earth’s changing climate is the defining issue of our time. Climate science should be accessible to everyone, but for too long it has remained impenetrable to nonexperts. Paul Palmer throws open the doors to this vital area of research, inviting readers to discover for themselves how scientists take the measure of a warming planet, how the Sun’s rays help to balance Earth’s energies, how the planet’s rotation affects large-scale atmospheric patterns, how the Anthropocene is fundamentally altering the climate, and much more.

Each chapter of this lively and informative book covers one of the seven key ideas that are central to understanding how our climate works—temperature, energy, air, water, cycles, time, and uncertainty—providing a user-friendly guide to the whole system. Palmer distills complex scientific concepts into plain language, making crucial facts about the climate available to all, regardless of their background. He explores the critical role of molecules and microbes, showing how the smallest elements profoundly influence our planetary destiny, and frames climate science not just in terms of crisis but as an elegant and fascinating area of inquiry, discovery, and shared purpose.

Bridging the gap between science and public perception, How Our Climate Works goes beyond politics and alarmism, empowering readers with the knowledge they need to truly appreciate the profound beauty and fragility of the planet we call home.

"A serious primer. . . . Unvarnished facts for the concerned citizen." * Kirkus Reviews *

Paul I. Palmer is a professor at the University of Edinburgh. He is the author of The Atmosphere: A Very Short Introduction and Essential Maths for Geoscientists: An Introduction.