Customer Reviews:
 arguably the greatest survival story ever told July 10, 2006
2 out of 2 found this review helpful
On the eve of war, Endeavour sets sail for Antarctica. What follows is an epic two-year struggle to safety, which is arguably the greatest survival story ever told.
Shackleton's account of life on the ice after Endurance's loss, and the hazardous journey to the remote and baron Elephant Island is marvellous. This achievement in itself was staggering; however what adds to this amazing tale is the then 800-mile journey by five in the very small James Caird, and the crossing of the glacier covered terrain of South Georgia (never before crossed). It is a true tale of survival, with the remarkable outcome of all 23 men being rescued.
I found chapters 4-11 (from the loss of Endurance to the rescue) the most interesting and readable. The preamble sets the scene, however is quite heavy reading. Post-chapter 11 Shackleton recounts the story of the Ross Sea party (the expeditions support party who were tasked with assembling the supply tents) - this does provide a fuller picture of the expedition, however is in quite a lot of detail (provided from the diaries of the various members of the expedition).
Overall, a thorough and fascinating first-hand account by a truely great explorer!
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