Pieces of the action

In 'Pieces of the Action', Vannevar Bush offers a collection of memoir-essays that reflect on his 60-year career in public affairs.

He discusses his role as the architect and administrator of an R&D pipeline that coordinated the work of civilian scientists and the military during World War II, leading to significant innovations such as radar, the proximity fuze, and the mass production of penicillin.

The book provides hard-won lessons on operating and managing complex organizations, building bridges between disciplines, and driving ambitious programs to fruition.

It also includes personal anecdotes and observations, offering a glimpse into Bush's personality and leadership style.

Originally published in 1970, this updated edition includes archival images and a foreword by Ben Reinhardt that contextualizes the lessons for contemporary readers.