The Worst Journey in the World

In 1910-1912, the author, as a young scientist, accompanied explorer Robert Scott on his doomed journey to Antarctica. Rather than go for the Pole with the leader, Cherry-Garrard undertook his own harrowing journey in search of Emperor penguins. Only when Scott and his party failed to return did he go after them and ultimately find their bodies. Robert Whitfield does what he can to enliven the lengthy text full of descriptions and scientific detail. Early on, he vocally recreates shipboard life; he also picks up on Cherry-Garrard's dry sense of humor, stiff-upper-lip approach to adversity, and appreciation for nature, the dogs and ponies on whom the expedition depended, and the polar landscape. Quotes from Scott's journals and other sources pepper the text but might confuse the listener, as they are only credited when finished. Among the book's poignant passages are those critical of the way the expedition was organized and funded. National Geographic's "Adventure" magazine named this as the #1 adventure book of all time. J.B.G. (c) AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine