Nuclear War

Author: Annie Jacobsen
Genre: Nonfiction
400 pages
Publisher: Dutton, 2024

Synopsis
There is only one scenario other than an asteroid strike that could end the world as we know it in a matter of hours: nuclear war. And one of the triggers for that war would be a nuclear missile inbound toward the United States.

Every generation, a journalist has looked deep into the heart of the nuclear military establishment: the technologies, the safeguards, the plans, and the risks. These investigations are vital to how we understand the world we really live in—where one nuclear missile will beget one in return, and where the choreography of the world’s end requires massive decisions made on seconds’ notice with information that is only as good as the intelligence we have.

Pulitzer Prize finalist Annie Jacobsen’s Nuclear War: A Scenario explores this ticking-clock scenario, based on dozens of exclusive new interviews with military and civilian experts who have built the weapons, have been privy to the response plans, and have been responsible for those decisions should they have needed to be made. Nuclear War: A Scenario examines the handful of minutes after a nuclear missile launch. It is essential reading, and unlike any other book in its depth and urgency.

My review
Nuclear War by Annie Jacobsen is an absolute must-read novel. As someone who reads mostly crime fiction and thrillers, I can confidently say this is the most disturbing book I’ve ever read.

I was stunned to discover the extent of various countries’ nuclear capabilities—intended as deterrents but, in reality, poised to be unleashed at any moment by a reckless leader. What shocked me even more was how quickly the launch of a single nuclear weapon could escalate into global annihilation.

Jacobsen’s book is meticulously researched, with impeccable sources backed by detailed technical information. While the subject matter is undeniably chilling, it’s a powerful, sobering, and gripping read. The writing is so engaging that, despite the abundance of military acronyms, I never felt confused or bored—in fact, I had chills nearly the entire time. At nearly 400 pages, it’s both utterly absorbing and surprisingly quick to get through.

Nuclear War is absolutely terrifying! Jacobsen makes it clear—there’s no such thing as a limited or winnable nuclear war. Just one misunderstanding, one malfunction, one madman, or one mistake could trigger the end. While I’m glad I read it, this is a story that will haunt me for a long time.

My recommendation: read it!