Shackleton

October 15, 2014

One of the greatest Antarctic survival stories involves Ernest Shackleton (1874-1922) and his ship, Endurance, as it sailed the South Atlantic Ocean. For many, this series of facts encompasses one's total knowledge of the Irish explorer. Smith (An Unsung Hero: Tom Crean--Antarctic Survivor) seeks to change this vague understanding with the first comprehensive biography of Shackleton in 30 years. Shackleton joined various shipping companies beginning at age 16, gaining experience as he was promoted through the ranks. He made his first voyage in 1901, sailing to Antarctica on the British National Antarctic Expedition (Discovery), which set a farthest south record. In 1907, Shackleton led the British Antarctic Expedition (Nimrod), which set a new such record. That team is credited with discovering the Beardmore Glacier, reaching the summit of Mt. Erebus, and locating the South Magnetic Pole. The Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition (Endurance) launched in 1914, marking Shackleton's third voyage to Antarctica. Smith uses existing journals, correspondence, and family records that separate the man from the myth while creating a highly readable account. VERDICT Shackleton is admired for his leadership skills while his repeated off-ice failures are overlooked or unknown. Smith offers a fascinating assessment of his subject, one that will be enjoyed by readers of biographies, polar literature, and adventure stories.--Margaret Atwater-Singer, Univ. of Evansville Lib., IN

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Starred review from September 15, 2014
Polar explorer Ernest Shackleton (18741922) needs little introduction, and yet a complete biography of his life has proven to be an elusive goal. Many authors have focused on the dramatic appeal of the failed and yet unforgettable Endurance expedition. Smith, who previously wrote about overlooked Antarctic hero Tom Crean, makes a significant effort to discuss Shackleton's personal and business relationships as well as his adventurous journeys. This look at his family, friends, and numerous well-known romantic entanglements both humanizes Shackleton and elevates his unusual achievements even further. He was a survivor who possessed near superhuman determination, and yet Smith makes it clear that he was also capable of the most common faults and failures. Through his use of reports, diaries, books, and the private papers of Shackleton's contemporaries, both those who admired and those who reviled him, and, most importantly, the men who served at his side, Smith provides a well-rounded look at the renowned explorer. It is Smith's writing style, however, that makes this biography such a page-turner and a wonderfully rich portrait of a twentieth-century icon. Shackleton has finally received the literary treatment his legendary life deserves.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2014, American Library Association.)