A place called Hiroshima - Hardcover

Gr 6 Up A memorable, finely crafted, emotionally intense photographic essay that transports readers to the midst of all that Hiroshima (the city, the bombing, the people) has been, is, and perhaps, will be. Fifteen years after the publication of Return to Hiroshima (Atheneum, 1970; o.p.), Lifton and Hosoe returned to Hiroshima. This book, which shows the results of delayed radiation effects and suffering still in evidence, is the result of their conversations and impressions. Current and historical photographs of exceptional quality and emotional depth support an artfully composed text that weaves the history of the event amidst the currency of its effect and the constant questions of the future. The subject of the book is challenging. Bomb victims' experiences are described and illustrated; readers are not spared the grotesque burning of human flesh, radiation diseases and deep emotional suffering. But too, they are generously supported by evidence of indomitable human spiritnumerous individuals, as well as collective human efforts, are presented. Historically accurate, the text throughout is thorough as it addresses, although in some cases not in any great depth, numerous aspects of Hiroshima's political and social history. The outstanding photographs, combined with the quality text, makes this book highly useful. And, due to the text's touching upon so many aspects of the Hiroshima story, it will most likely serve to motivate students to subsequent research. Catherine Wood, Shelburne Museum, Vt.

Copyright 1985 Cahners Business Information, Inc.