The development of the science behind the atom is one of the more amazing stories of modern research. The discovery of enormous power contained within the atom, and the ability to release it, is told in a manner that adds suspense and discovery to the timeline.

Scientists such as Einstein, Teller, Rutherford, Curie, Szilard, Bohr, Heisenberg, and others worked in different labs but collaborated enough to move the science forward in the early 20th century. The dislocations of the two world wars brought turbulence and urgency to the work. Radiance provides a solid story of what happened in those years and how the Fascist forces in Europe culminated in many of them working together and eventually moving to the US.

Along the way, I discovered that H.G. Wells had lunch with Leo Szilard where mention of Wells' science fiction book, "The World Set Free," was made. Written in 1913, I'd never heard of it. Sales were halted after a poor initial showing, but I found a copy of Project Gutenberg and read it. Wow - Wells predicted the atomic bomb and even coined the term himself, in 1913, before WW1.

There is enough science in Radiance to keep most happy without dragging down the reader. Very enjoyable read if you enjoy science history.