Bomb (Graphic Novel): The Race to Build—and Steal—the World’s Most Dangerous Weapon

Gr 5 Up–The world is at war, when suddenly a massive scientific discovery threatens to change weapons and warfare forever. Multiple powers race to be the first to create a super weapon, steal information, sabotage the efforts of others, and even illicitly share information with the enemy. This is the story of the brilliance, lies, plots, and astonishing risks taken to create the most dangerous weapon the world has ever seen—the atomic bomb. The atomic bomb may be one of the most controversial inventions of all time, and this graphic novel adaptation of Sheinkin’s Bomb (2012) handles the complex and ultimately unsettling history with honesty and openness. Gripping and fast-paced, the story also brings to light little-known characters such as the Norwegian commandos who prevented Germany from making their own atomic weapons. The science is explained simply, and Bertozzi’s full-color illustrations seamlessly unite with the text for an immersive reading experience. Sheinkin does not shy away from the horror of these events, hauntingly moving from the passionate focus of the scientists at work to images and facts that highlight the devastating human toll of their creation. A swear word is included once, but it is in keeping with historical record and it isn’t gratuitous. Back matter includes an epilogue and author’s note with additional information on some of the historical figures in the book.