"A Friend of the Earth" is a novel by T.C. Boyle that intertwines environmental themes with complex human relationships. The story is set in a near-future dystopia where climate change has drastically affected life on Earth. The protagonist, Ty Tierwater, a former environmental activist, reflects on his past and the choices he made during more hopeful times when he worked to protect the earth and its wildlife.
The narrative alternates between the present and Ty's earlier life, showcasing his struggles within a failing society plagued by pollution and societal decay. He is portrayed as a deeply conflicted character, grappling with the repercussions of his actions and their impacts on relationships with those around him, including his family and other activists.