

The ramifications of the Manhattan Project are with us to this day. The atomic bombs that came out of it brought an end to the war in the Pacific, but at a heavy loss of life in Japan and the opening of a Pandora s box that has tested international relations. This book traces the history of the Manhattan Project, from the first glimmerings of the possibility of such a catastrophic weapon to the aftermath of the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. It profiles the architects of the bomb and how they tried to reconcile their personal feelings with their ambition as scientists. It looks at the role of the politicians and it includes first-hand accounts of those who experienced the effects of the bombings.2015 is the 70th anniversary of the dropping of the bombs. A fascinating account, written for laymen, which looks at every aspect of this pivotal event in world history. Includes photographs. Review: Detailed, clear, thorough - This book provides a detailed, clear, and thorough look into the people, technology, politics, and actions of the dawning of the atomic age. I liked that I came away understanding the full picture of what happened and why, even interviews from survivors of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. It neither glorifies nor demonizes the secret effort, but gives a complete view. Review: Well worth reading. - The Manhattan Project is not a scholarly book; there no indications of works the author drew on in writing, no index, no notes. I have given it four stars because of this. A book on an important topic like this should allow its readers to check its sources. I am not a scientist, but as far as I can tell from other reading, this is a responsible account of its subject. The book is very accessible, informative, and interesting. The scope of the Manhattan Project and the pressures under which it operated are amazing. The photographs in the book are a nice addition. I recommend it to anyone looking for a basic understanding of the Manhattan Project.
| Best Sellers Rank | #4,703 in World War II History (Books) |
| Customer Reviews | 4.2 out of 5 stars 640 Reviews |
S**.
Detailed, clear, thorough
This book provides a detailed, clear, and thorough look into the people, technology, politics, and actions of the dawning of the atomic age. I liked that I came away understanding the full picture of what happened and why, even interviews from survivors of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. It neither glorifies nor demonizes the secret effort, but gives a complete view.
M**N
Well worth reading.
The Manhattan Project is not a scholarly book; there no indications of works the author drew on in writing, no index, no notes. I have given it four stars because of this. A book on an important topic like this should allow its readers to check its sources. I am not a scientist, but as far as I can tell from other reading, this is a responsible account of its subject. The book is very accessible, informative, and interesting. The scope of the Manhattan Project and the pressures under which it operated are amazing. The photographs in the book are a nice addition. I recommend it to anyone looking for a basic understanding of the Manhattan Project.
P**M
Details about the Project
After reading multiple accounts about the science and implementation of the first nuclear bombs, I was surprised to learn of the initial problems overcome by the numerous entities involved. The author does an excellent job describing the many technical roadblocks solved before the shocking finale of the Trinity test was realized. Excellent!
S**G
it's ok
I was expecting more info on Oppenheimer
A**N
Good read
An introductory history lesson, really good for anyone with even a passing interest in the beginnings of Atomic energy and weapons. Not boring in the least!
L**D
The whole nuclear story
This book unmasks the background of the atomic bomb, from the first steps of developing the technology for using nuclear energy for massive destruction to a bit about the last two tests by the US. I found it to be illuminating because I already knew bits and pieces, but now I feel like I have a better idea of the whole story. I think that this is a good companion to "The Girls of Atomic City" because it completes the story.
J**R
Best read to a layman.
Thoroughly enjoyed. I am not a physicist, so the simpler explanations of the science were easier to understand. The story's characters, illustrations and photos brought the telling into focus. The inter-weaving of war, politics and objective--end the war --are defined. A good introduction to an important tale.
Y**7
Great!
Highly informative. Enjoyed it immensely. Mr. Cimino greatly helped me realize just what a massive undertaking this was. The relationship between General Groves and Oppenheimer may never again be duplicated, they put aside their vast differences in philosophy to get the bomb built, in today's world it's hard to picture that happening.
W**D
The making of the atom bomb
Inspiring. History of the end of the second world war in the Pacific.
U**T
Pacey and interesting.
The book has the correct balance of history and scientific fact to produce a very satisfying read. Highly recommended for general readers.
M**S
Excellent
Excellent books . I bought this for my son as his birthday gift .Strongly recommend. Those who wants to know about the Nuclear Bomb , must buy this book. Paper nd writing both r osm.
R**N
Saw the movie? This is a helpful precis of the key moments.
It was very helpful since I read it prior to seeing the film. Not as detailed as the standard book, of course, but it does give one an idea of the backstory.
J**R
Wow - so readable, so much recent history
Very gripping and very well written. A clear exposition of recent, hugely important events. Thoroughly recommend it. Thank you Al.
Trustpilot
1 month ago
3 days ago