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Hiroshima Diary

The Journal of a Japanese Physician, August 6-September 30, 1945

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Hiroshima Diary

By: Michihiko Hachiya MD
Narrated by: Robertson Dean
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The late Dr. Michihiko Hachiya was director of the Hiroshima Communications Hospital when the world's first atomic bomb was dropped on the city. Though his responsibilities in the appalling chaos of a devastated city were awesome, he found time to record the story daily, with compassion and tenderness. Dr. Hachiya's compelling diary was originally published by the UNC Press in 1955, with the help of Dr. Warner Wells of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, who was a surgical consultant to the Atomic Bomb Casualty Commission and who became a friend of Dr. Hachiya. In a new foreword, John Dower reflects on the enduring importance of the diary 50 years after the bombing.

(P)2014 Tantor Asia Historical Japan Medical Military Professionals & Academics Weapons & Warfare War Imperial Japan
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Critic reviews

"An extraordinary literary event." ( The New York Times)
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it's not a nice book. it's an awful creation but the book was written by someone that plays down the worst of the event and focuses on details. If there are other diaries from Hiroshima or Nagasaki I will look forward to listening.

Must listen book author was a hero

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This was absolutely fantastic, despite the fact that it is a diary of only a few days. I loved the insight that ordinary Japanese people had into the A-bomb and the aftermath. This is such a seeringly honest account of those dreadful days after the A-bomb was dropped on Hiroshima. This should have been depressing and upsetting but it managed to be honest unbiased and informative. Really enjoyed this.

Absolutely amazing!

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This is a factual, eye opening and at times horrifying commentary on the aftermath of the bombing of Hiroshima. But what is most striking g is the community in times of enormous strife and his willingness to see the goodness in people despite everything he sees. I’d recommend this to anyone.

Searingly honest and somehow not depressing

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You've heard the military tactics and you've know the horrendous stories that pull on your heart strings, but this is a unique insight into the human psyche. It is a day by day account showing an honest, human perspective coping with defeat and devastation.

Completely different insight

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Gripping, well written, horrifying account of Hiroshima - its a must read. Leaves you thinking about it, long after you have finished the book

Excellent

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