62 pages 2 hours read

Richard Rhodes

The Making of the Atomic Bomb

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1986

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

The Making of the Atomic Bomb by Richard Rhodes details the development of the atomic bomb in the 1930s and 1940s, chronicling how international scientists turned a theoretical possibility into a lethal weapon, culminating in the bomb's deployment on Hiroshima. The book covers the discovery of nuclear fission, scientific advancements, political dynamics, and ethical debates among scientists. The narrative includes descriptions of wartime atrocities.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Richard Rhodes's The Making of the Atomic Bomb is consistently praised for its thorough research, engaging narrative, and balanced portrayal of scientific and historical contexts. Readers commend its detailed character insights and accessible explanations of complex topics. Some find its dense information overwhelming, but overall, it's considered a monumental work in both science and history literature.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Making of the Atomic Bomb?

A reader who relishes in-depth historical narratives and complex scientific breakthroughs will enjoy Richard Rhodes' The Making of the Atomic Bomb. This book appeals to fans of Walter Isaacson's Einstein and David McCullough's The Wright Brothers, blending meticulous research with compelling storytelling.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Topics

History: U.S.

Military / War

Science / Nature

Period

WWII / World War II