Antarctica, that great, unknown continent, has attracted explorers and scientists for centuries. Like many before him, Griffiths (history, Australian National Univ., Canberra) was drawn to this harsh but beautiful landscape. Believing that to understand the experiences of explorers and the history of Antarctica one must experience its mighty winds, cold, danger, and silence, the author, in 2002, joined a ship delivering scientists and supplies to Casey Station. This book is part diary of that voyage and part history of that most southerly land. Griffiths pleasantly meanders from topic to topic discussing humanity's fascination with the South Pole, from the early explorers to the race to be first to the pole, the multinational land grab, and the continent's designation as the natural laboratory of science and research. This enjoyable and highly readable book would be an excellent addition to any natural history, polar history, or adventure travel collection. [See also the review of The Ends of the Earth, p. 81.-Ed.]-Betty Galbraith, Washington State Univ. Science & Engineering Lib., Pullman Copyright 2007 Reed Business Information.
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