Bomb : the race to build and steal the world's most dangerous weapon by Steven Sheinkin

I just finished Bomb: the race to build and steal the world's most dangerous weapon by Steven Sheinkin.  It's another selection from this year's Virginia Reader's Choice selections.  Wow- what a book!

It's a fantastic read for anyone who's seeking the adventures of a spy-thriller.  Science buffs and history buffs will also enjoy the fascinating subject.  Here's a brief description:

In December of 1938, a chemist in a German laboratory made a shocking discovery: When placed next to radioactive material, a Uranium atom split in two. That simple discovery launched a scientific race that spanned 3 continents. In Great Britain and the United States, Soviet spies worked their way into the scientific community; in Norway, a commando force slipped behind enemy lines to attack German heavy-water manufacturing; and deep in the desert, one brilliant group of scientists was hidden away at a remote site at Los Alamos. This is the story of the plotting, the risk-taking, the deceit, and genius that created the world's most formidable weapon. This is the story of the atomic bomb.

What I really liked about this book is that it manages to cover some really difficult scientific topics in a way that’s very easy to understand.  Sheinkin also does a good job at making this serious subject relevant to the world today.  Very thought-provoking.  An excellent choice for a narrative non-fiction. 

Welcome back, Ravens!

I hope you’ve all had a fantastic summer and got yourselves caught up in a good book like I did.  After all, summer vacation is the best time to read just for the fun of it!

This year’s selections for Virginia Reader’s Choice are here.  I’ll highlight one each week and I’m starting with Endangered by Eliot Schrefer:

Congo is a dangerous place, even for people who are trying to do good.

When Sophie has to visit her mother at her sanctuary for bonobos, she's not thrilled to be there. Then Otto, an infant bonobo, comes into her life, and for the first time she feels responsible for another creature.

But peace does not last long for Sophie and Otto. When an armed revolution breaks out in the country, the sanctuary is attacked, and the two of them must escape unprepared into the jungle. Caught in the crosshairs of a lethal conflict, they must struggle to keep safe, to eat, and to live.

Wow- the perfect choice for anyone who’s in the mood for a quick action / adventure / survival story.  Stop by the library to check out your copy!