Midnight in Chernobyl is a gripping account of the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear disaster, combining meticulous research with a narrative style that immerses readers in the events leading up to and following the explosion at Reactor No. 4. Adam Higginbotham delves into the Soviet Union's flawed political and scientific systems, exploring how secrecy, incompetence, and a lack of preparedness led to one of the worst nuclear catastrophes in history. The book also brings to life the personal stories of those affected, from plant workers and their families to scientists and political leaders.

Why Read This Book

• Provides a detailed and well-researched account of the Chernobyl disaster, drawing on newly uncovered archives and firsthand interviews.
• Reads like a thriller, despite its factual nature, combining history, politics, and human stories to explain the disaster's causes and consequences.
• Offers insights into the Soviet Union's political climate and how its systemic failures exacerbated the tragedy.
• Explores the long-term impact of Chernobyl on the environment, health, and nuclear energy policy.

About the Author

Adam Higginbotham is a British journalist and author whose work has appeared in The New Yorker, The New York Times Magazine, and The Washington Post. Known for his investigative journalism and narrative non-fiction, Higginbotham’s in-depth research and engaging writing style make Midnight in Chernobyl a standout work on the subject.