66 pages • 2 hours read
Most Dangerous: Daniel Ellsberg and the Secret History of the Vietnam War
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Book Brief
400
Book • Nonfiction
Vietnam War Era • 1970s
2015
YA
12-18 years
890L
Super Short Summary
Most Dangerous by Steve Sheinkin recounts Daniel Ellsberg's journey from a Pentagon analyst during the Vietnam War to a whistleblower who released the Pentagon Papers, revealing government deceit. His actions sparked legal battles over press freedom and contributed to the war's end. The book covers the moral dilemmas and political intrigue surrounding the Vietnam War and the publication of classified information.
Informative
Mysterious
Suspenseful
Challenging
Reviews & Readership
6,481 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Most Dangerous by Steve Sheinkin is highly praised for its thrilling narrative and meticulous research, making complex historical events accessible and engaging for younger audiences. Critics commend its suspenseful storytelling and educational value. However, some note that dense political details may challenge less motivated readers. Overall, it is a compelling read with profound insights.
Who Should Read Most Dangerous?
A reader who would enjoy Most Dangerous by Steve Sheinkin likely has a keen interest in modern American history, political intrigue, and the ethics of government transparency. Similar audiences might also appreciate The Pentagon Papers by Neil Sheehan and The Radium Girls by Kate Moore. Perfect for fans of gripping true stories.
6,481 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
President Lyndon B. Johnson
President Lyndon B. Johnson
The U.S. president who escalated the Vietnam War significantly, experiencing personal conflict and public criticism due to the ongoing and unpopular conflict during his administration.
President Richard Nixon
President Richard Nixon
Elected as president in 1968 with a promise to end the Vietnam War, his actions were often at odds with his public stance, and he became embroiled in political scandals.
Ho Chi Minh (Nguyen Tat Thanh)
Ho Chi Minh (Nguyen Tat Thanh)
Leader of North Vietnam's independence movement, who was known for his communist beliefs and played a pivotal role during the Vietnam War until his death in 1969.
Patricia Marx
Patricia Marx
A journalist who was against the Vietnam War and had a complex romantic relationship with Daniel Ellsberg, eventually encouraging him to release the Pentagon Papers.
Henry Kissinger
Henry Kissinger
Nixon's national security advisor, known for his pivotal role in U.S. foreign policy during the Vietnam War and his adversarial stance against Ellsberg post-leak.
Robert McNamara
Robert McNamara
The U.S. Secretary of Defense who initially supported Vietnam War escalation but later became disillusioned, commissioning the Pentagon Papers study to understand the war's failures.
400
Book • Nonfiction
Vietnam War Era • 1970s
2015
YA
12-18 years
890L
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