This book, first published in August of 1945, provided some of the first information to the American public about the development and use of atomic weapons. It combines a number of explanations of atomic physics crafted for readers with no scientific background. Truman’s statement is given in its entirety, and a later edition includes Secretary Stimson’s Harper's Magazinearticle. The book contains quotes from Winston Churchill, Clement Atlee, William Laurence, and several writers for the New York Times. A section of John Milton’s "Samson Agonistes" is presented as a literary context for atomic energy. There is a surprising concern expressed by the editors for the dangers of this new warfare, as well as the need to control it. The book does not always clearly indicate which words are being quoted rather than edited or added. It is a choppy read, is a less-than-complete record, and runs for pages in continuous quotation.