In 'Hiroshima', John Hersey chronicles the harrowing experiences of six survivors of the atomic bombing in 1945. Their lives are irrevocably changed as they navigate the aftermath of the blast—grappling with physical and emotional scars. Through their poignant stories, Hersey exposes the chilling reality of nuclear warfare and its profound human cost. The narrative reveals both the resilience of the human spirit and the horrific consequences of technological advancement. This powerful account challenges readers to confront the legacy of Hiroshima and the moral dilemmas surrounding warfare.
By John Hersey
Published: 2019
"In the end, the only thing we can control is how we respond to the events that shape our lives, for in every tragedy lies the seed of resilience."
On August 6, 1945, Hiroshima was destroyed by the first atom bomb ever dropped on a city. This book, John Hersey's journalistic masterpiece, tells what happened on that day. Told through the memories of survivors, this timeless, powerful and compassionate document has become a classic "that stirs the conscience of humanity" (The New York Times). Almost four decades after the original publication of this celebrated book, John Hersey went back to Hiroshima in search of the people whose stories he had told. His account of what he discovered about them is now the eloquent and moving final chapter of Hiroshima.
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“In the end, the only thing we can control is how we respond to the events that shape our lives, for in every tragedy lies the seed of resilience.”
Hiroshima
By John Hersey
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
John Hersey was an American author and journalist best known for his impactful works that documented the human experience during times of war and crisis. His most notable work, 'Hiroshima' (1946), provides a haunting account of the atomic bomb's aftermath through the narratives of six survivors. Hersey's writing style is characterized by its journalistic precision, deep empathy, and an unflinching exploration of the human condition. Other significant works include 'A Bell for Adano' (1944), which won the Pulitzer Prize, and 'The Wall' (1950), a novel about the Holocaust. Hersey's contributions to literature extend beyond fiction, as he adeptly merged narrative storytelling with historical and social themes.
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