Endurance: An Epic of Polar Adventure
by F.A. Worsley
January 17, 2009
F.A. Worsley's book Endurance: An Epic of Polar Adventure tells the story of Ernest Shackleton's attempted expedition to traverse the Antarctic Continent. When their ship, The Endurance, became stuck in the thick pack ice that surrounded the continent, the expedition was aborted and the quest for survival began. Ultimately, the men would be stuck almost two years under the worst of conditions.
Worsley, the captain of Endurance during the journey, tells the story from beginning to end in an easy, readable style. Worsley's admiration for Shackleton, who has since been lauded as one of the greatest leaders of modern times, is apparent throughout his writing.
Although an obviously plot-driven tale, Endurance: An Epic of Polar Adventure reveals its three or four main characters in riveting detail. The main character is undoubtedly Shackleton--whose strong leadership and concern for his men is clearly seen. One chapter outlines Frank Wild, the man chosen to lead the stranded group when the crew was forced to separate, in bold strokes. The narrator, Worsley, rarely directly discloses information about himself, choosing rather to let his character be seen through his thoughts and observations. But, for me, the most intriguing part of Worsley's tale is the seldom mentioned but often alluded to "fourth man". Worsley mentions that as he and two other men traversed the mountain range of South Georgia they felt the strange sense that there had been four rather than just three men. This same sense overwhelmed me as I saw the miraculous events that led to the survival of all members of the party.
Endurance: An Epic of Polar Adventure is a well-written, rivetting history of Shackleton's Expedition. I highly recommend it to all.
Rating: *****
Category:History/Memoir
Recommendation: A fascinating story told well, this book is recommended for all readers--and for non-readers who are interested in history, adventure, or exploration.
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Other Books by F.A. Worsley:
The Endurance: An Epic of Polar Adventure