Reviews

The Apocalypse Factory: Plutonium and the Making of the Atomic Age by Steve Olson

skiracechick's review against another edition

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5.0

Ok, I really enjoyed this book. I don’t know if it was all the physics talk that made me nostalgic or that the topic centered mostly around the Hanford site (just a few hours drive away from where I live), or that Hanford and many of the other sites discussed are actually part of the organization I ultimately work for, but I was completely enthralled. In fact, I want to know more!

witchybitchybookworm's review against another edition

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3.75

the last two chapters took this from a 5 star down to a 3.75 star. i think it grossly glossed over and almost dismissed the human impacts of nuclear disasters, instead only looking at those impacted by Hanford. Perhaps if there were a follow up on lasting impacts of radiation, dispelling misunderstandings and myths of radiation, and a comparisons of areas effected, methods and strategies of cleaning fallout and radioactive waste i would bump it back to a 4.5. 

miguelf's review

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4.0

Pleasantly surprised with this book about the history of Hanford – it runs parallel to the discovery and early testing of the atomic weapons program (comprising the bulk of the book as would be expected), to more recent times including the ramp down and environmental cleanup effort. Thus it’s a cradle to grave overview. This was definitely one where the audiobook shines as I had checked out the eBook at first and it seemed a bit dry, but really came to life as a fully fleshed out story when carefully listened to.

deanagrummons's review against another edition

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3.0

I got this book to learn a little more about Hanford. The book discusses the Hanford site's use during WWII and onward. It was an interesting read. I mostly enjoyed the science aspects.

msbananananner's review against another edition

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challenging emotional informative reflective medium-paced

4.25

tinygreensnake's review against another edition

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informative reflective

4.0

kbrenn12's review against another edition

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challenging informative slow-paced

3.75

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