Chernobyl 01
Ratings14
Average rating3.6
Key Takeaways:
- If something is mission critical, EVERYONE involved needs thorough training of not just the day-to-day aspects of the job, but also what to do in unusual circumstances
- If you do not know what you are doing or you are not comfortable with something, ask questions. If your questions are dismissed or not answered satisfactorily, consider the ramifications
- Listen to the evidence. Don't stick your head in the sand
- Always be prepared. Ask yourself, ‘What could go wrong?' If it is serious, prepare for it
This was fine. Other books have covered the material better, and without the personal story (which felt a little gross in places), but it wasn't bad, so... three stars it is.
Mixed feelings with this book.
While the narration of the historical event is done interestingly and highly supported on facts, his personal visit to the nuclear plant is rather irrelevant to the reader and doesn't provide much interesting information. I'd suggest reading it but reading without much detail this second part and focus on the former.
Additionally, in my opinion, the editors of the book haven't really done a great job as the pictures taken by the author are placed in pages where there's no link between these and the text.
What made this book so enjoyable was the author's passion for the subject. While not a study guide on the disaster, the contrast of the history and the author's personal stories of what Chernobyl looks like today provided an ominous tone. I think everyone is guilty of, at first glance, overlooking the fact that this and surrounding cities were once populated and functioning areas of the world and instead focus on the disaster itself.
I've studied Chernobyl here and there and was excited when I found this book. It was a good place to start learning more. My intrigue has grown and I look forward to finding more books on the subject. Andrew Leatherbarrow has clearly gone to great lengths in his research and it shows. Again, his passion is what shines on each page making for enjoyable reading.