In his quest to paint as complete a picture as possible of this important element, the author begins his story in the Middle Ages and ends it in the present. Although most of the developments that one would expect in such a narrative are covered at least to some degree, i.e., discovery of radioactivity, discovery of fission and the development and use of the atomic bomb, other aspects of uranium figure much more prominently in the book. These include: the prospecting, discovery and mining of uranium, uranium mine locations in the world, the politics involved, the economic and sociological aspects, etc.; nuclear power is also discussed but to a much lesser extent. The author does a good job of explaining some of the scientific aspects of uranium at a level suitable for a general audience. However, those excursions are few and brief. In fact, a few are a bit too brief to be meaningful. The writing style is quite lively, clear, friendly, very accessible and engaging. Very little jargon is used, but when it is the terms are fully and clearly explained. This book can be enjoyed by anyone, but those interested in current affairs will likely appreciate it the most.

What a fantastic read, especially the first several chapters that explain the discovery of uranium,culminating with the bombing of Japan. The Book goes on to cover the post WW two developments of the Atomic age. Very well written in laymens terms.

This book is well worth the read! As other reviewers have noted, the book covers a good range of history, with amazing anecdotes in every chapter. The subject is very relevant now that industrial countries are revisiting nuclear power.

Why not 5 stars? There was no single cohesive idea (other than the mineral itself) to tie everything together. The end of the book was an end of the anecdotes, not really the completion of a story or thesis.

But I don't think that's a big shortcoming. This is an enjoyable read, well researched and evenly presented.

This is a great story about a very special rock, uranium, which was formed by petrified foliage millions of years ago, and continues to breed a deadly form of energy. Tom Zoellner's factual book reads like a gripping novel. He breathes vigorous life into a saga that could have been a dry political and geological tale. His beautifully crafted story puts uranium into its complex context as a key protagonist on the world stage. Zoellner's reporting ranges from the Congo to Nazi Germany to the war in Iran, with vivid information at every turn. getAbstract found this meticulously researched book exceptionally interesting, and recommends it to anyone interested in discovering how society entered the atomic age and how it is muddling through.

Read the other positive reviews. Same comments. Easy read and captivating even if I never worked at Los Alomos or commanded a nuclear submarine. I did however visit Shinkolobwe using Google Earth. A feat neither Groves nor Sengier can say they have done.

This is an extremely interesting read! Did you know that the critical last part of the uranium that went into the Hiroshima bomb was intended as a gift to the Japanese military from the Nazis?? The materiel was on its way to Japan in a German U-boat when the captain received word of the Allied victory in Europe and decided to change course to New York, surrendering to the Americans. Two Japanese officers onboard committed suicide before the submarine docked. I can't believe I never heard of this!!
If you're also fascinated by such uncommonly known facts, Tom Zoellner has delivered a real page-turner for you. His writing is engaging and clear - especially for a book about a topic as complicated as nuclear physics. Whether you are into science or a complete layman, this is one of those rare scientific tomes that is widely appealing and readable - which is saying a lot!