In a world ravaged by climate change and social collapse, 18-year-old Lauren Olamina possesses a unique gift—and a dangerous one. She can feel others' pain as her own. As society crumbles around her gated community in 2027 California, Lauren develops a revolutionary philosophy called Earthseed, believing that humanity's destiny lies among the stars. But when her home is destroyed and her family killed, Lauren must embark on a perilous journey north, disguised as a man, gathering a diverse group of survivors along the way.

   With her unwavering belief in Earthseed and her determination to forge a new future, Lauren faces unimaginable challenges in a world where water is worth more than gold, slavery has returned, and danger lurks around every corner. Will she be able to plant the seeds of hope and create a community that can withstand the harsh realities of this new America?