The astonishing biography of a mineral that can sustain our world- or destroy it Uranium occurs naturally in the earth's crust-yet holds the power to end all life on the planet. This is its fundamental paradox; and its story is a fascinating window into the valor; greed; genius; and folly of humanity. A problem for miners in the Middle Ages; an inspiration to novelists and a boon to medicine; a devastatÂing weapon at the end of World War II; and eventually a polluter; killer; excuse for war with Iraq; potential deliverer of Armageddon and a possible last defense against global warming-Uranium is the riveting story of the most powerful element on earth; and one which will shape our future; for better or worse.
#201385 in Books Tom Zoellner 2010-02-23 2010-02-23Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 8.39 x .80 x 5.52l; .66 #File Name: 014311672X368 pagesUranium War Energy and the Rock That Shaped the World
Review
3 of 3 people found the following review helpful. One of my favorite books of all timeBy AnonymousOne of my favorite books of all time. It really does read like a novel at different points. A wealth of interesting information about one of the most influential substances on modern human history. Lots of great perspectives and many varied stories about everything possibly relating to Uranium. I can't think of a nonfiction book that I liked reading as much as this one.2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. READ AND UNDERSTAND!By Stephen Lee MorganAn excellent book; and a truly fascinating reading experience. If you have never been afraid of radioactivity; this book will do it for you! Deep background on what really is 'the rock that shaped the world.' My very highest recommendation!2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. 'Now we're ALL sons of bitches'!By S. RogersThis is great stuff! I'm in the middle of it now and I think it's one of the best books I've bought on . Richard Rhodes' classic was just too ponderous for me to get through at the time; but 'Uranium' gives me just what I need to know about the nuclear world without knowing exactly what every well-known physicist of the era had for breakfast that morning. All of the disparate info you've ever known/not known about nuclear physics and its politics comes together here in a very coherent style that doubles as both travelogue and suspense novel. Plus; you have to get it now to figure out just what the heck the title of this review has to do with anything; right?
