Ernest Shackleton is one of history’s great explorers, a tenacious and charismatic personality who became a dominant figure in Antarctic discovery. His incredible adventures on four expeditions to the Antarctic have captivated generations. He was a restless adventurer from an Irish background with acclaimed leadership skills. But he was also a flawed character whose chaotic private life, marked by romantic affairs, unfulfilled ambitions and failed business ventures, contrasted with celebrity status as the leading explorer. Persistent money problems left his men unpaid and his family with debts.
This first comprehensive biography in a generation draws on extensive research of original diaries, letters and many other publications. It brings a fresh perspective to the heroic age of Polar exploration which was dominated by Shackleton’s complex, compelling and enduringly fascinating story.
About the Author :
Michael Smith is a best-selling author and authority on Polar exploration He has written eight books, including An Unsung Hero (2000). He has appeared in numerous TV/radio documentaries and lectured extensively at venues such as Buckingham Palace, Royal Geographical Society and National Museum of Ireland. Before becoming a full-time writer Michael was a business and political journalist with The Guardian and The Observer. He lives in East Sussex.
Review :
"Rich volume, written in a passionate, engaging style that makes it a compelling read."
"Perfect to peruse at the fireside, Smith's mammoth work will prove fascinating to even the most earthbound home bird."
"Free-flowing writing style and below-decks perspective make the book an easy and enjoyable read."
"Mr Smith brings his own considerable scholarship in the field to the story."
"As a buccaneering Edwardian adventurer, as hapless in his private life as he was dynamic in his public exploits, he is rescued by Smith's genial study as a flawed, enduring inspiration."
"Fascinating."
"Calm, even-handed appraisal."
"Included in The Best Biographies of 2014."
"It is a classic story, and Smith tells it with passion and commitment."
"The book, written in a brisk, unfussy style, captures the duality of the man and is propelled by his burning sense of adventure."
"There are so many instances of derring-do on his four expeditions to the Antarctic that it's hard to comprehend how he achieved all he did without any of the technological support we now take for granted. And all on a diet of penguin, biscuits and fish."
'Polar explorer Shackleton has finally received the literary treatment his legendary life deserves.'
"Landmark new biography treatment [ - ] impressively researched tome."
"Fascinating exploration of the man behind the myth."
"Fascinating assessment."
