104 pages 3 hours read

Steve Sheinkin

Bomb: The Race to Build—and Steal—the World's Most Dangerous Weapon

Nonfiction | Book | Middle Grade | Published in 2012

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

In Bomb, Steve Sheinkin tells the gripping true story of the World War II race between the Allies and Germany to develop an atomic bomb, while the Soviet Union tries to steal the bomb-making information from the US. The book explores the intense effort, espionage, and sabotage involved in this historic contest, highlighting the scientific and military minds leading the charge on all sides. The book includes graphic descriptions of wounded and dead persons after a nuclear attack, as well as references to suicidal ideation.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Steve Sheinkin's Bomb captivates readers with its fast-paced, gripping recount of the race to build the atomic bomb. The well-researched narrative is praised for its accessibility and engagement, though some critique it for a dense overload of information. Ultimately, it's an exciting educational read that brings historical events to life.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Bomb?

A reader who would enjoy Bomb by Steve Sheinkin is likely fascinated by World War II history, espionage, and scientific discovery. Fans of Code Name Verity by Elizabeth Wein and The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind by William Kamkwamba will appreciate the gripping narrative and detailed historical context.

Recommended

Reading Age

12-18years

Lexile Level

920L

Book Details

Topics

History: World

Military / War

Science / Nature

Themes

Values/Ideas: Science & Technology

Values/Ideas: Trust & Doubt

Emotions/Behavior: Guilt

Genre

Children's Literature

Period

WWII / World War II