An Observer ‘book to look out for’ in 2026

A New Scientist pick for 2026

The Surge is a timely, gripping account of humanity’s battle against rising waters — and the urgent choices we must make for our future.

'An important and urgent examination… An eye-opening read.’ Peter Frankopan

'This book combines gripping storytelling with deep questions about how we live in a changing world.' Jonn Elledge

Rising waters are flooding cities and homes across the globe, from Florida to Nepal. By 2050, 150 million people will live below the high tide line, facing an uncertain future as cities like London and Shanghai grapple with worsening floods. In this timely, panoramic and gripping book, climate editor Jeevan Vasagar traces humanity's responses to flooding over the centuries, from the deadly North Sea floods of 1953 to the catastrophic events of today.

He explores the costly and complicated choices governments face: fight the water with ever- expanding defences, or adapt and move? Drawing on groundbreaking engineering solutions, Vasagar argues for a radical rethink — combining resistance and accommodation as we reimagine our cities. A stark warning, but also a message of hope, The Surge is essential reading for understanding how climate change is reshaping our world — and what we can do about it.