A Billion Butterflies

“Jagadish Shukla’s A Billion Butterflies is engaging and illuminating–part fascinating memoir, part critical history of modern climate science, and part manifesto. It is the almost magical story of a barefoot boy who rises from a tiny Indian village and discovers how to predict the previously unpredictable monsoon rains–upon which the fragile supply of food for his village and thousands like it depend. Along the way he has to overcome the contrary scientific thinking of some of meteorology’s greatest minds. Ultimately, he, himself, becomes a world leader and defender of climate science. It is a rich tale written in layman’s terms and deserves the attention of anyone wanting to discover the story–and people–behind the latest climate science.” –Rob Wesson, geophysicist and author, Darwin’s First Theory

“A Billion Butterflies is the wonderful story of Jagadish Shukla’s pathfinding contributions for extending the range of forecasting weather and climate variations. He is one of the towering figures in the science of weather and climate and his book should be read far and wide.” – Syukuro Manabe, Nobel Laureate (2021)

“In A Billion Butterflies: A Life in Climate and Chaos Theory, Dr. Jagadish Shukla weaves a rich tapestry of his journey from a small village in India to the forefront of climate science. His profound insights into the delicate balance of our planet’s climate systems are not just a testament to his scientific rigor but also a call to action. This book is a compelling narrative that marries the personal with the planetary, urging us to heed the lessons of the past and act decisively for a sustainable future. It’s a must-read for anyone who cares about the legacy we leave for the generations to come.” – Dante S. Lauretta, Regents Professor at the University of Arizona Lunar and Planetary Laboratory and Author of The Asteroid Hunter: A Scientist’s Journey to the Dawn of our Solar System

“A Billion Butterflies is a multi-dimensional tale which beautifully weaves together global cultures, personal ambition and cutting-edge science. The book is a masterpiece!” - Dr. Bob Bishop, President & Founder, International Centre for Earth Simulation (ICES)

“The memoir of a scientist who rose from poverty in India to triumph in his specialty. … An admirable and inspiring account from a pioneering figure in climate research.” - Kirkus Reviews

“A scintillating look at the rewards and pitfalls of dedicating one’s life to science.” - Publishers Weekly“Shukla is a captivating storyteller, modest, funny, and warm. Readers will be thrilled to discover a new hero, a globally impactful scientist, educator, and humanitarian.” - Booklist (starred)

Dr. JAGADISH SHUKLA is a Professor of Climate Dynamics at George Mason University. Internationally recognized for his role in the development of weather and climate science, he has received the International Meteorological Prize by the UN and the Exceptional Scientific Achievement Medal of NASA, the highest honor given to a civilian by NASA. For his work as a lead author for the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s 4th assessment, his team was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.