on Parable of the Sower, a fire-ravaged California suffers a climate change future that is now real. In the 1993 speculative fiction classic, American science-fiction author Octavia E. Butlerwho lived in nearby Altadena, predicted a catastrophic fire in Los Angeles.

The Afrofuturist’s tomb is located in Altadena, which was hit hard amid the recent fires that left thousands of Californians without their homes. But his tomb was saved: the AP shared a photo of the location and reported that it received “minimal damage,” citing a statement on the Altadena Mountain View cemetery’s web site. Butler passed away in 2006 and his footstone reads “All that you touch, you change. Everything you change, changes you,” a quote from Parable of the Sower.

Altadena, that CBS News described as “a historic Black community,” now working to rebuild. The Book of Octaviaa Pasadena bookstore named for the inspiring author, a hub of activity that works tirelessly to support Butler’s beloved Los Angeles enclave. For more information on how to help relief efforts visit HERE.

Check out the interview below with Octavia’s Bookshelf owner Nikki High about the work they do—and the importance of Altadena as a great American town that needs to be preserved and not bought by capitalists. real estate.

Want more io9 news? Check when to expect the latest wonders, Star Warsand Star Trek releases, what’s next for DC Universe in film and TVand everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.