Bomb: The 1945 Test of the First Atomic Bomb is a gripping and meticulously researched account of the events leading up to and following the detonation of the first atomic bomb in 1945. The book provides a thorough examination of the scientific, political, and ethical implications of the Manhattan Project and the decision to use the atomic bomb on Japan.

The authors do an excellent job of presenting a balanced and nuanced perspective on a deeply controversial and complex subject. They delve into the motivations of key figures such as J. Robert Oppenheimer and President Harry Truman, exploring their moral dilemmas and the immense pressure they faced in making such a monumental decision.

The narrative is both engrossing and informative, offering a detailed look at the scientific breakthroughs that led to the creation of the atomic bomb, as well as the devastating impact it had on the people of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The authors also examine the legacy of the bomb, exploring how it shaped the course of history and the ongoing debate over the use of nuclear weapons.

Overall, Bomb: The 1945 Test of the First Atomic Bomb is a thought-provoking and essential read for anyone interested in the history of World War II, the development of nuclear weapons, or the ethical implications of warfare. It offers a comprehensive and nuanced exploration of a critical moment in human history, shedding light on the complexity and moral ambiguity of the atomic age.

Book Description:
These two publications put out by the U.S. government are about the Trinity site in New Mexico where in 1945 the first atomic bomb was tested. Each publication complements the other, though there is some duplication. These are descriptions of the test itself and of the planning and organization leading up to the test. They also tell what was done with the site after the test and how it became a national historic landmark. - Summary by david wales