More than ever before, radiation is a part of our modern daily lives. We own radiation-emitting phones, regularly get diagnostic x-rays, such as mammograms, and submit to full-body security scans at airports. We worry and debate about the proliferation of nuclear weapons and the safety of nuclear power plants. But how much do we really know about r "Altogether, the text gives detailed insight into the nature of radiation and the historical findings and developments, as well as a solid basis for understanding the appearances and effects of radiation in modern society. It is very well written in a colloquial style and does not require any specialist knowledge. It can be recommended as a good read both for entertainment and scientifically based information to a general readership."---Manuel Vogel, Contemporary Physics