Emma Pattee, a 34-year-old Oregon native and journalist specializing in climate science, was inspired to write her debut novel, "Tilt," after experiencing an earthquake while pregnant in 2019.

The novel is set against the backdrop of a catastrophic earthquake along the Cascadia subduction zone, which could register in the high 8 to 9 range.

The story follows Annie, a pregnant woman navigating the aftermath of the earthquake in Portland, reflecting both Pattee's fears and the challenges faced by many residents in the city.

A critical scene in the book is set in a school, which Pattee fictionalizes to avoid alarming local parents, while still emphasizing the need for improved safety measures in Portland's schools.

Through her research and conversations with experts, Pattee aims to address the pressing issue of earthquake preparedness and the potential for community action to enhance safety.

To ensure scientific accuracy, Pattee collaborated with graduate students and professionals, including geologists and first responders.

Her research involved real-life locations and expected destruction points, making the setting authentic and relatable.

The storyline is enriched with real-life elements, including Pattee's personal experiences with motherhood, the pandemic, and social justice protests.

While Pattee's intention was not to shock readers, she hopes the novel will raise awareness about personal and city-wide emergency preparedness, particularly regarding earthquake safety in public schools.

Pattee acknowledges the emotional impact of her book, especially on parents, and recognizes that it may provoke fear while highlighting the urgency of being prepared for an inevitable earthquake.

Readers outside of Portland find the book thrilling, while local readers often react more intensely, reflecting on their own preparedness for a similar disaster.

Through her writing, Pattee has shifted her perspective on earthquake anxiety, aiming to alleviate fears and promote awareness about preparedness rather than dystopian scenarios.