Seed Beetle (Paperback or Softback)

In a climate changed future, Canada is thought to be a promised land. But in southern Ontario, the promise and the land are exhausted: industrialization has led to widespread destruction, desertification and food insecurity. So when Utopic Robotics promises growth and presents a community with a swarm of automated beetles that will revitalize the land and rebuild utopia, community members rally behind the corporation and its message of hope. But technological solutions often come with secret risks.

This collection of illustrated poems explores those risks inherent in utopia and the idea that through science alone we can solve our environmental problems. Through femme and queer perspectives, Smith lays bare the social implications of a technological savior, and creates a blueprint for co-opting technology in the name of community and connection.

Ottawa-based writer Mahaila Smith's poetry has been nominated and finalist for the Best of the Net Award, the Rhysling award and the Ralph Angel Poetry Prize. Their debut chapbook, Claw Machine, was published by Anstruther Press. Their second chapbook, Water-Kin, was published by Metatron Press. Their poems have been published in Room, Augur, Untethered Magazine and elsewhere. You can find more of their work on their website, mahailasmith.ca.