HISTORY

UFO: The Inside Story of the US Government’s Search for Alien Life Here—and Out There

by Garrett M. Graff
Avid Reader. Nov. 2023. 544p. ISBN 9781982196776. $32.50. HIST
COPY ISBN
Journalist, historian, and Pulitzer Prize finalist Graff’s (Watergate: A New History) newest book furthers his reputation for crafting stories that are exceptionally well researched and incredibly entertaining. Drawing on declassified documents, archival research, and interviews with senior intelligence and military officials, Graff seamlessly intertwines two narratives: 1) the U.S. military’s investigations, beginning in 1947, of sightings of unusual flying objects in Roswell, NM, and Mount Rainier, WA; and 2) the scientific community’s ongoing search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI), including projects such as the SETI Institute. This book also discusses hoaxers and secret military meetings.
VERDICT This is not a dry retelling of the facts that many people think they already know about unidentified flying objects. Instead, it’s a thrilling tale of ongoing discussions in and outside of the halls of government that’s sure to leave readers feeling more curious than ever. The mysteries of the universe may never be known, but Graff’s carefully crafted prose will intrigue readers and leave them asking if Earthlings are alone in the cosmos.
Reviewed by Jennifer Moore , Jan 12, 2024
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