Vocab
Nuclear energy that can cause cancer and other health defects
Radiation
Why was the author there?
Because he's a science writer who wanted to learn more about nuclear disaster.
Year in which the explosion occurred
1986
What is his name?
George Johnson
Name three locations the tour group visits inside the Exclusion Zone.
Pripyat, reactor control rooms, abandoned schools, amusement park, etc.
In a strange and frightening manner.
Eerily
John, a young man from London
He was into "extreme tourism"
Where Chernobyl is located
Ukraine, Soviet Union
Who is Yuri and what role does he play in the story?
He is the tour guide who leads the group through the Exclusion Zone.
How does this story connect to the idea of “man vs. nature”?
It shows how human mistakes left nature to take over abandoned places.
Define “dosimeter.”
A device used to measure exposure to radiation
Gavin from Austria
Working on a performance piece about quarantine with another man.
How does tourism in Chernobyl reflect humanity’s relationship with disaster?
It shows our curiosity, desire to face danger, and fascination with history.
How do the tourists react differently to the dangers of radiation?
Some are fearful, some are casual, some treat it like an adventure.
How does The Nuclear Tourist connect to themes of science fiction?
It deals with advanced technology, disaster, and survival after catastrophe
What does “abandoned” mean in the context of this story?
Deserted or left behind, such as towns, homes, and schools after the disaster.
Georg from Vienna
Working on a performance piece about quarantine with another man
Why is it significant that nature is reclaiming parts of Chernobyl?
It shows resilience of nature, but also the haunting absence of humans.
What precautions do the tour guides and tourists take while visiting?
Wearing dosimeters, avoiding certain areas, washing shoes, following strict paths.
What connection can you make between The Nuclear Tourist and There Will Come Soft Rains?
Like There Will Come Soft Rains, it shows abandoned places after human disaster.
Something that is feared because it is most likely a dangerous occurrence.
Specter
Anna, a quiet young woman from Moscow
She is drawn to abandoned places that have fallen apart.
How does The Nuclear Tourist raise questions about technology and responsibility?
It highlights the dangers of unchecked technology and the consequences of human error.
How does the author personally feel during the tour?
Fascinated but uneasy about the invisible danger of radiation.
How might this story serve as a warning for the future?
It warns about the consequences of human carelessness with technology and environment.