Plot summary, “Hiroshima” by John Hersey in 3 Minutes - Book Review
0"Hiroshima" is a non-fiction book written by John Hersey, an American journalist and writer. Originally published as a lengthy article in The New Yorker in 1946, it was later expanded into a book in 1946. The book provides a detailed and harrowing account of the experiences of six survivors of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, Japan, on August 6, 1945, during World War II.
In "Hiroshima," John Hersey focuses on the human stories of individuals affected by the devastating atomic bomb. He chronicles the lives of six survivors — Miss Toshiko Sasaki, Dr. Masakazu Fujii, Mrs. Hatsuyo Nakamura, Father Wilhelm Kleinsorge, Dr. Terufumi Sasaki, and Reverend Kiyoshi Tanimoto — as they navigate the immediate aftermath of the bombing and the subsequent weeks and months.
Hersey's narrative offers a poignant and firsthand account of the horrors and aftermath of the atomic bomb, describing the physical and emotional devastation, the struggles for survival, and the resilience of those impacted. The book sheds light on the long-term physical and psychological effects of the bombing on individuals and the city of Hiroshima as a whole.
Through the personal stories of the survivors, Hersey humanizes the victims and conveys the tragedy and moral implications of the atomic bomb's use. His vivid and empathetic storytelling serves as a powerful reminder of the immense human cost of warfare and the need for peace.
"Hiroshima" had a profound impact on its readers and played a significant role in raising awareness about the consequences of nuclear weapons. It remains a seminal work of non-fiction, contributing to discussions on the ethics of warfare and the devastating effects of nuclear weaponry.
The book is acclaimed for its objective and compassionate portrayal of the survivors and their experiences. Hersey's careful research and attention to detail, as well as his ability to capture the resilience and humanity of the individuals involved, have made "Hiroshima" an enduring and influential work in the field of non-fiction and journalism.