James Mahaffey

James Mahaffey is an American nuclear physicist, science writer and author. He has worked in nuclear research and has spent decades studying the history and science of nuclear energy, nuclear weapons and the accidents that have marked the atomic age. His expertise combines technical knowledge with a gift for narrative storytelling. Atomic Accidents is his gripping account of the nuclear mishaps, near-misses and disasters that have occurred since the dawn of the atomic age, from laboratory incidents to major catastrophes. The book reveals how human error, hubris, poor design and sheer bad luck have led to some of the most dangerous moments in the history of technology, told with dark humour and meticulous technical detail. Available as both a book and an audiobook, Atomic Accidents offers fascinating and sobering listening and reading for science enthusiasts, history buffs and anyone who wants to understand the risks and realities of living in the nuclear age.