Countdown to Atomgeddon: The Race to Build the First Atomic Bomb

by James Howell

The Second World War was reaching a deciding point in late 1944 when the United States formed teams of scientists and specialized military units in the hope of stopping Germany from developing a “super weapon.” These teams were responsible for capturing supplies of uranium and thorium raw materials and laboratory equipment used to produce the “super bomb.” Many of the assets that the Germans possessed were vital to help the United States and the Manhattan Project build the first atomic bomb. The teams of scientists and specialized military personnel were called into service as the “Alsos missions” sent to find and confine many of the prominent physicists and their research work. It was believed that the Germans were close to developing the bomb and would ensure Nazi world dominance. Several of the captured physicists were to become part of the Manhattan Project while others were returned to Germany after the war to rebuild the sciences.

152 pages, Hardcover

First published September 9, 2014

Reviews

[R.W. Lang · Rating 3 out of 5]

In August of 1944, Nate and Blake were recalled to active duty in the Army to lead teams (Alsos) in Europe. Their mission was to secure needed materials and scientists in the race to build the first atomic bomb. The Germans and the Russians were also in the race for the same goal. John and Dino, classmates at UCLA, were recruited and reported to Major Powers, the coordinator of the Alsos teams. While Allied Forces were driving the Nazis out of Italy and France, Alsos teams relied heavily upon Enzo and Nora, leaders of the Italian Underground for help locating resources. The team's missions were successful and contributed to the Manhattan Project and the ultimate atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

[R.W. Lang · Rating 3 out of 5]

This story describes the race between the United States and the Third Reich to develop the atom bomb. There is a complicated spy ring trying to steal information from the United States, hinder development, and ultimately delay the test at Trinity Site. They were led to believe that Jumbo was the test bomb as a cover for Gadget, the real test bomb. Many pains taking operations were enacted to delay Jumbo's arrival at Trinity Site. Protagonists, Blake and Nate discover what's going on, and help the government to identify and capture some spies. Howell writes with an underlying sense of humor throughout.