Bomb - Likewise Book Reviews

"This is the only book by him I’ve ever read but the book is magnificent and on the future I’d like to read more books by him"

"Allison Freeman<br/><br/>APA Citation:<br/><br/>Sheinkin, S. (2012). <i>Bomb: The Race to Build—and Steal—the World’s Most Dangerous Weapon</i>. New York: Roaring Book Press<br/><br/>Genre: Informational<br/><br/>Format: Print<br/><br/>Selection Process: YALSA Award for Excellence in Nonfiction (2013), Newberry Honor (2013), National Book Award Finalist (2012)<br/><br/>Kraus, D. (2012). Bomb: The Race to Build—and Steal—the World’s Most Dangerous Weapon <i>Booklist, 109</i>(1), 100.<br/> <br/>Review:<br/><br/>Bomb: The Race to Build—and Steal—the World’s Most Dangerous Weapon is all about the making of the atomic bomb, the spies and agents of the former Soviet Union sent to spy and steal the plans for the bomb and the revolutionaries that fought to keep the plans and ingredients out of the wrong hands. The book explains how the atomic bomb was made from the materials and chemicals needed to the type of casing needed to deliver the explosive. The book, at times, got quite technical when it came to the math, science and engineering of the first atomic bomb but it was all explained in a way that teens could easily pick it up and understand what it going on. The stories told within the pages of this book were primarily from the perspective of Soviet spy, Harry Gold, brilliant scientist and head of the notorious Manhattan Project J. Robert Oppenheimer and Norwegian resistance fighter Knut Haukelid. Harry Gold was an interesting character and the espionage that took play around this character was fascinating but it was nearly as exciting as the other two perspectives. J. Robert Oppenheimer was one of the most brilliant minds of his day and readers got a chance to learn much about this dynamic and important piece of the puzzle, which was the atomic bomb. Dr. Oppenheimer’s personality, achievements and involvement in the Manhattan Project were mesmerizing to read about and were truly enlightening. The best part of the book was the story of Knut Haukelid, his journey to Germany, his team’s successful mission in destroying the heavy water plant fueling Germany’s race to build their own atomic bomb. The scene where the team, led by Knut, is sneaking up to and into the plant was exciting and suspenseful making it impossible to stop reading. After reading this book, readers will know more about uranium, espionage, and the events surrounding the creation of the atomic bomb then ever before. Mr. Sheinkin created a masterfully done nonfiction novel that exquisitely chronicled the events, people, and actions, which led to the creation of “the world’s most dangerous weapon.” Highly recommend.<br/>"

"Most nonfiction books I've come across can get a little dry because of the lack of plot. This book, however, keeps you hooked and entertained. Super interesting and easily understandable. Even though its written for middle schoolers, as an adult, it still is a great read."

"I'm waiting to get the sequel, fallout "