Title: An Unsung Hero: Tom Crean – Antarctic Survivor
Author: Michael Smith
First published September 1, 2000
ebook
ISBN: 9781848890534 (ISBN10: 1848890532)
Rating: 4.5
Overview
In the enchanting novel “Goddess of Love” by P.C. Cast, a modern-day woman named Pea Chamberlain yearns for a change. She seeks the help of none other than the mythical Venus, who comes to life to unleash Pea’s inner goddess.
Venus transforms Pea’s appearance with a complete makeover, but Pea soon finds herself falling for a handsome and charming man. As Pea navigates her newfound love, she wonders if Venus needs a little help in the romance department as well.
Get ready for a sizzling and heartwarming tale as the Goddess of Love embarks on her own journey of love and self-discovery.
About the Author
Meet Michael Smith, a former journalist who decided to pursue his passion for Polar expeditions by writing the bestselling biography “An Unsung Hero – Tom Crean.” After a successful 30-year career as a top business and political journalist, with positions such as Political Correspondent and Industrial Editor of the Guardian, City Editor of the London Evening Standard, and Business Editor of the Observer, Smith decided to switch gears and delve into his lifelong interest in Polar exploration. Now residing in East Sussex, Smith’s love for the Polar regions shines through in his work.
Editoral Review
An Unsung Hero: Tom Crean – Antarctic Survivor by Michael Smith is a compelling and inspiring historical account of one of the bravest and most resilient explorers of the early 20th century. Smith is a renowned British historian, journalist, and author, who specializes in polar exploration and military history.
This book was first published in September 2000 and has since become a classic in its genre, capturing the imagination of readers worldwide. The book follows the life of Tom Crean, an Irishman who joined several expeditions to the Antarctic between 1901 and 1916, including those led by Robert Falcon Scott and Ernest Shackleton.
The narrative is based on extensive research, including Crean’s diaries and letters, as well as other primary sources. Smith skillfully weaves together historical facts with vivid descriptions and human emotions, creating a gripping and emotional story.
The book’s setting is the frozen and hostile environment of the Antarctic, with its relentless storms, icy landscapes, and daunting challenges. Smith vividly describes the expeditions’ equipment, strategies, and goals, as well as the daily routines, camaraderie, and conflicts among the crew members.
He also portrays the physical and mental endurance required by the explorers, and the extraordinary courage and determination displayed by Tom Crean in the face of adversity. However, An Unsung Hero goes beyond being a mere adventure story.
It raises profound questions about human values, resilience in the face of adversity, and the limits of exploration. The book reflects on themes such as leadership, teamwork, loyalty, sacrifice, and legacy, all of which resonate with contemporary society’s challenges and dilemmas.
For example, one of the book’s central messages is the importance of humility and respect for nature, and how the exploitation of natural resources can lead to disastrous consequences. Smith’s writing style is clear, concise, and engaging, with a good balance of narrative and analysis.
He succeeds in presenting Tom Crean as a complex and multilayered character, with strengths and weaknesses, fears, and aspirations. The pacing of the book is well-managed, with enough tension and surprises to keep the reader hooked but also enough moments of reflection and introspection.
One of the book’s main strengths is its historical accuracy, which provides valuable insights into the challenges and achievements of polar exploration. The book includes several photographs, maps, and diagrams that enhance the reader’s understanding and imagination of the settings and events.
However, one of the book’s limitations is that it focuses too much on Tom Crean’s biography and neglects the other crew members’ perspectives and experiences. Although this is understandable, given Crean’s extraordinary story, it would have been interesting to explore the social dynamics and power relations within the expeditions further.
Overall, An Unsung Hero: Tom Crean – Antarctic Survivor is a highly recommended read for anyone interested in historical non-fiction, adventure, and personal growth. The book offers a compelling account of a heroic figure whose achievements deserve wider recognition, and whose legacy of courage, humility, and perseverance can inspire us all.
I would give this book a score of 9/10, based on its insightful analysis, gripping storytelling, and historical accuracy.