Recent Read: Bomb

The making of the atomic bomb is one of history's most amazing examples of teamwork and genius and poise under pressure. But it's also the story of how humans created a weapon capable of wiping our species off the face of the planet. It's a story with no end in sight.

And, like it or not, you're in it.

Simply put, this is the story of the atomic bomb. German chemist Otto Hahn's 1938 discovery that atoms could be split became supremely important in the context of a growing world war. Germany and the US were soon racing to use this discovery to create the ultimate weapon (and sabotage their enemy). But they weren't alone—the Soviet Union, in its quest to become a superpower, decided they needed atomic warfare. And wouldn't it be easier to steal the American's atomic plans rather than develop their own? This is the thrilling story of scientific genius and brainstorming, spying, deceit, sabotage, war, and a weapon that has forever changed the world in which we live.

In the first pages of Steve Sheinkin's Bomb: The Race to Build--and Steal--the World's Most Dangerous Weapon, the author throws the reader into a thrilling spy narrative. In the pages that follow, his skillful use of primary resources, key details and narrative style combine to paint clear pictures, bring people to life, create scenes of suspense, and keep the pages turning. He explains complex scientific concepts and issues simply and clearly enough for anyone to understand and includes photographs for visual support. Not as in-depth as adult nonfiction, but very well-suited to the audience, and very readable. In the epilogue, Sheinkin explains the long-lasting aftermath of the creation of such a weapon--the cold war, the growing prevalence of nuclear warfare in the world, reminding readers of how relevant this story is to their lives now. Fascinating, well-done, highly recommended.

*This book was recommended to me by a great Macmillan publicist at ALA. Here I was a clueless newbie asking about Monstrous Beauty, and she really talked to me as if I mattered (this was not the case at every publisher). Even though she didn't have galleys of this book to give out, she totally sold me on it, and I've been on the lookout ever since. I will forever have a positive impression of Macmillan thanks to her.