“H. G. Wells would have been fascinated by Atomic Adventures, especially by the ways its cast of scientists―who range from authentic experts to the shadiest of con artists―have tried to make use of atomic energy in war and in peace. Mahaffey…knows how to tell a good story and, no less important, has an eye for unfamiliar and revealing details.”

“A gloriously nerdy tour of atomic research.”

“Reads like a collection of spooky tales perfect for sharing around the campfire this summer…Most of Mahaffey’s tales are pure fun, but his more personal anecdotes offer a lesson…[and] a glimpse into the real moments of frustration and jubilations of a researcher’s life…Celebrate(s) the full arc of science: the good, the bad, and the quirky.”

“What Mahaffey details is often hilarious and occasionally horrifying…Mahaffey’s book is irresistible.”

“Filled with batty geniuses who want to power the world with a scary mixture of nuclear energy and hubris. Stellar nonfiction.”

“An expert, equally amusing chronicle of the wide world of nuclear science…Mahaffey’s account is not the first but definitely the funniest.”

“Although the atomic craze peaked in the mid-twentieth century, the topic continues to fascinate, and Mahaffey has tapped into the excitement.”