A Shot to Save the World by

A Shot to Save the World by Gregory Zuckerman delves into the unprecedented race to develop a vaccine against COVID-19, highlighting the collaboration and innovation that made it possible. The book offers a behind-the-scenes look at the scientists, companies, and governments involved in this historic effort, providing a detailed account of the challenges and breakthroughs that led to the creation of life-saving vaccines. /n/n This compelling narrative not only chronicles the scientific journey but also explores the broader implications of the pandemic and the role of technology and innovation in shaping our future. Zuckerman's thorough research and engaging storytelling make this a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of science, public health, and global cooperation.

Reviews

Medium · Hafiz Tajuddin · 2025-10-16

engaging 4.20

The reviewer finds the book incredibly informative and well-written, appreciating the author's ability to maintain attention. They highlight the book's depth and the author's expertise as a WSJ reporter.

Hafiz Tajuddin praises the book for its informative content and engaging narrative, noting the author's ability to keep the reader's attention. As a WSJ reporter, the author brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the subject, making the book a compelling read. Tajuddin appreciates the depth of the book and its ability to provide a comprehensive understanding of the vaccine development process.

Quick quotes

The book is incredibly informative, and being a WSJ reporter, the author knows how to keep your attention through the chapters.

He starts with a compelling introduction that sets the stage for the incredible journey of vaccine development.

A must-read for anyone interested in the science and the human stories behind the COVID-19 vaccines.

Financial Times · 2025-10-16

brilliant 4.50

The book is praised for its deep reporting and gripping narrative, offering a detailed chronicle of the scientific breakthrough during the pandemic. It is considered a dazzling account of the most consequential scientific achievement of our time.

The reviewer highlights the book's thorough research and engaging storytelling, making it a compelling read. They appreciate the detailed account of the scientific efforts during the pandemic, describing it as a blow-by-blow chronicle of a significant breakthrough. The book is seen as a must-read for understanding the complexities and achievements in the race for a COVID-19 vaccine.

Quick quotes

Deeply reported and endlessly gripping, this is a dazzling, blow-by-blow chronicle of the most consequential scientific breakthrough of our time.

It's a story that needed to be told, and Zuckerman tells it brilliantly.

A must-read for anyone interested in the science and the human stories behind the COVID-19 vaccines.

WBUR · Scott Tong · 2021-10-27

informative 4.00

The book is noted for its informative and engaging narrative, providing a comprehensive look at the race for a COVID-19 vaccine. The reviewer appreciates the author's ability to keep the reader's attention throughout.

Scott Tong speaks highly of the book's ability to inform and engage readers, highlighting the author's skill in maintaining attention. The book is praised for its comprehensive coverage of the scientific and human elements involved in the vaccine development process. Tong finds the narrative compelling and informative, making it a valuable read for understanding the pandemic's scientific aspects.

Quick quotes

This book helped me understand how the seemingly overnight success of multiple vaccines for covid-19 was 30+ years in the making.

The author knows how to keep your attention through the chapters.

A deeply informative and engaging read that sheds light on the incredible efforts behind the COVID-19 vaccines.

Appears in Lists

Technology & Innovation (list) - Best Business Books