In a riveting narrative that includes information from documents declassified in the late 1990s, Frank gives an explanation of the months leading up to the dropping of the atomic bomb on Japan that ended WW2. Describes how American leaders learned in the summer of 1945 that their alternate strategy to end the war by invasion had been shattered by a massive Japanese buildup on the island of Kyushu. Meanwhile, intercepted diplomatic documents revealed the dismal prospects of negotiation. Here also, is a comprehensive narrative of how Japan¿s leaders were willing to risk complete annihilation to preserve the nation¿s existing order. ¿Demolishes long-standing myths with the stark realities of this great historical controversy.¿ Illustrations.