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  • American Prometheus

  • The Triumph and Tragedy of J. Robert Oppenheimer
  • Written by: Kai Bird, Martin J. Sherwin
  • Narrated by: Jeff Cummings
  • Length: 26 hrs and 30 mins
  • 4.8 out of 5 stars (34 ratings)

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American Prometheus

Written by: Kai Bird, Martin J. Sherwin
Narrated by: Jeff Cummings
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Publisher's Summary

PULITZER PRIZE WINNER • The definitive biography of J. Robert Oppenheimer, one of the iconic figures of the twentieth century, a brilliant physicist who led the effort to build the atomic bomb for his country in a time of war, and who later found himself confronting the moral consequences of scientific progress.

THE INSPIRATION FOR THE MAJOR MOTION PICTURE
OPPENHEIMER

J. Robert Oppenheimer is one of the iconic figures of the twentieth century, a brilliant physicist who led the effort to build the atomic bomb for his country in a time of war and who later found himself confronting the moral consequences of scientific progress.

When he proposed international controls over atomic materials, opposed the development of the hydrogen bomb, and criticized plans for a nuclear war, his ideas were anathema to powerful advocates of a massive nuclear buildup during the anti-Communist hysteria of the early 1950s. They declared that Oppenheimer could not be trusted with America’s nuclear secrets.

In this magisterial biography twenty-five years in the making, which won the 2006 Pulitzer Prize for biography, the authors capture Oppenheimer’s life and times, from his early career to his central role in the Cold War.

©2005 Kai Bird; 2007 Blackstone Audio Inc.

Critic Reviews

"The definitive biography...Oppenheimer's life doesn't influence us. It haunts us." ( Newsweek)
"[A] profoundly fascinating, richly complex, and ineffably sad American life.... Bird and Sherwin are without peer...in capturing the humanity of the man." ( Booklist)
"A work of voluminous scholarship and lucid insight, unifying its multifaceted portrait with a keen grasp of Oppenheimer's essential nature.... It succeeds in deeply fathoming his most damaging, self-contradictory behavior." ( New York Times)

What listeners say about American Prometheus

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Oppenheimer - A genius with a few failings

Excellent book and excellent narration. It was not only about the great scientist but also about the political history of USA during the world war and post war years. The story of atom bomb was fascinating and Oppenheimer’s personality in driving the whole project forward and that too directing great scientists at an young age is equally fascinating. Yes the book was extremely dense but one would get the rewards in terms of knowledge and understanding by this extremely well researched and structured book. Would recommend to any one who wants to understand this enigmatic genius of a person and the happenings in his country during the period.

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Tragedy of Brilliance

Very well narrated. Loved it. surely recommend this to all interested to know more about this genius.

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Reality is stranger than fiction!!

one of the greatest pieces of literature I have ever read. the life of rober j Oppenheimer is truly inspiring. highly recommended.

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Almost a Greek Tragedy

Outstanding individual and a person of integrity but fails due to ambiguity in expression. Highly recommend to anyone interested in biographies of eminent scientists.

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Loved it

very well narrated. The book is somewhat long but maintains our interest all the while.

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The Greatest Biography, one worth your time!

Simply one of the greatest man in the history of the world. The inspiration lies in his simplistic yet courageous lifestyle, one which he chose to live truthfully. A great tragedy to such a great man who only wanted to stop the destructive potential of this world. You will be amazed by the man.

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Detailed

Loved this man, So beautifully done, so detailed. Must read to this man better. I never knew about this man better. Thank you AUDIBLE!!!

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