“The Meanings of a Disaster: Chernobyl and Its Afterlives in Britain and France” explores the lasting impact of the Chernobyl disaster on Western European societies. Author Karena Kalmbach examines how Britain and France grappled with the accident’s immediate consequences and its long-term social, political, and environmental ramifications. Moving beyond a purely technical account, the book reveals how Chernobyl became a lens through which existing anxieties about nuclear power, national identity, and the Soviet Union were amplified and reinterpreted. Kalmbach meticulously analyzes public discourse, policy debates, and cultural representations, offering a nuanced understanding of how the disaster shaped Western European perceptions of risk, responsibility, and international relations. Published in 2020 by Berghahn Books, this insightful study provides valuable perspectives for students and scholars interested in environmental history, European studies, and the politics of disaster. The book also uncovers the untold stories of how different social groups in Britain and France perceived and reacted to the radioactive fallout. It highlights the anxieties fueled by uncertainty and misinformation, examining how individuals and communities negotiated the challenges posed by a disaster that transcended national boundaries. Readers can delve into the book to discover how Chernobyl became a pivotal moment that transformed public discourse and reshaped political landscapes in both countries. The book serves as a crucial reminder of the need for transparent communication, international cooperation, and responsible policymaking in the face of global challenges.