An in-depth account of the devastating Chernobyl disaster, and its reverberating effects. Higginbotham combines piles of research with interviews and firsthand accounts in this compulsively readable report. Starting at the beginning, in the nuclear power plant control room, the reader follows the tragedy from early mistakes, to government lies, to worldwide disaster response. The political, social, and scientific implications of this event are fascinating and terrifying. This is a must-read for any history-lover or nonfiction fan.

For the history buff. In his 2024 Kirkus Prize-winning narrative, Higginbotham provides a detailed account of the events leading up to and after the 1986 Challenger space shuttle disaster, which killed all seven people on board. Witnessed by millions on TV, it was a history-defining tragedy and yet much of what happened that day was obscured or forgotten. Higginbotham introduces us to the seven members of the crew, along with others who played an important role, be they whistleblowers, engineers, or those who ignored the warning signs. This is important and engaging reading for those who wish to better understand one of the defining events of a generation.