Destination Antarctica

April 15, 2009 by World Travel · Leave a Comment

Grade 4-6 Swan takes readers on a personal journey, a trek following in the footsteps of Robert Scott and his companions, on foot, from McMurdo Sound to the South Pole, without air support, radio, or emergency beacons. He describes the rather long process of gaining experience and obtaining companions, funding, supplies, and transportation for a late summer landing on the shores of Antarctica. Here they must wait out the winter until the coming of spring allows them to set off, towing their supply sleds behind them. The difficulties were enormous. Heavy loads, rugged terrain, bitter cold, personal injury, and sled problems slowed their pace. Exhaustion depleted their energy to the point where it was difficult to summon the strength to prepare the food they so desperately required. All in all, the expedition was successful, even though their supply ship was crushed by the Antarctic ice pack, fortunately without loss of life. Members of the staff stayed behind an extra dark winter to assure that the shore was left in its original pristine condition (even the walkers in their weakest condition towed their trash with them!). The spare text is complemented perfectly by a profusion of color photos. A modern epic journey, presented to young readers in a graceful, colorful package. Patricia Manning, Eastchester Public Library, N.Y.
Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc.