Tom Zoellner talked about and presented slides on his book Uranium: War, Energy, and the Rock that Shaped the World (Viking Adult; March 5, 2009). He presents a history of uranium, the strongest element the Earth can create, from its early use to its central role in the development of weapons of mass destruction. Mr. Zoellner examines the creation of munitions using uranium from the mine to the marketplace. He responded to questions from the audience.

Tom Zoellner is the co-author of An Ordinary Man and the author of The Heartless Stone: A Journey Through the World of Diamonds, Deceit, and Desire. Mr. Zoellner was formerly a reporter for the San Francisco Chronicle and contributing editor at Men’s Health magazine.