Description

Take a dive into the history and story of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster!

In The Story of Chernobyl, an international tragedy is examined after three decades of study and investigation. Michael Robinson provides an educated lens on the background and context of the Chernobyl explosion through exposition, analysis, and testimony. Each chapter addresses the what, where, when, who, how, and why of a significant stage in the emergency. Through thorough and approachable explanation, Robinson dissects the construction of Pripyat as a city to support the labor the power plant required and explains the science and terminology behind nuclear energy. The book also uses compiled accounts from witnesses, participants, victims, and families of those affected to paint a robust picture of the event from all sides.

Perspectives from historians, scientists, and scholars tie these experiences into the broader narrative of what was going on in the world at this time to enable such an unlikely fiasco. This is a holistic evaluation of Chernobyl chronologically, from the years leading up to the disaster up through the long-term consequences still endured by those affected today. The Story of Chernobyl takes a hard look at the people and institutions involved, and tackles the difficult question of who to blame for the devastation that would lead to the fall of the Soviet Union.