.
I have now completed reading the book “Atomic Thunder, The
Maralinga Story” that I referenced several weeks ago in Thread 133441 and offer this short review:
The author, Elizabeth Tynan, has produced a very
well written account of the proceedings of the British atomic tests held in the 1950-60’s. Unlike some other books about this subject she appears to have no axe to grind, other than revealing in detail the abomination that the British government wrought on the Australian continent.
There is much detail here although presented in a coherent manner. Even so, I found my eyes glazing over at times and skipped a paragraph or two.
Beginning with Britain’s reasons for wanting nuclear weapons, the chapters proceed through the establishment of the
Test Ranges at Monte Bello, Emu Fields and
Maralinga, the conduct and outcome of the firings, the effect upon the Aboriginal people and the service personnel, through to the consequent official enquiries and the several site cleanups. It is certainly more comprehensive than books on this subject that I have previously read.
For anyone with an interest in these events or an intention to visit
Maralinga, reading this book is recommended.
I found it impossible to not form very strong negative opinions about some of the people, both scientific and political, who were involved in this saga. It is a close stroke-of-fate that I was not. I feel that I have now read sufficient books on these events and would not wish to revisit
Maralinga. The book however will remain in my library as at least a reference work.
A good-sized book at 373 pages, it contains maps, an index, glossary and very comprehensive references to material sources. The author has clearly done extensive research on the subject.
To quote Phillip Adams, “Compulsive reading? Make that compulsory. This is a brilliant book.”
“Atomic Thunder”, Elizabeth Tynan, ISBN 9781742234281. Dewey No. 994.05