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Endurance: Shackleton's Incredible Voyage

Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 1959

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Book Brief

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Alfred Lansing

Endurance: Shackleton's Incredible Voyage

Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 1959
Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Setting

Antarctica • 1910s

Publication Year

1959

Publisher

Carroll & Graf Publishers

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

13+ years

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Super Short Summary

In Endurance: Shackleton's Incredible Voyage by Alfred Lansing, Ernest Shackleton's 1914 Antarctic expedition becomes a survival saga after their ship, the Endurance, is trapped and crushed by ice. Stranded on ice floes, Shackleton and his 27 crew members endure extreme conditions while drifting toward potential rescue, eventually reaching solid ground and securing help, showcasing extraordinary leadership and endurance.

Adventurous

Inspirational

Suspenseful

Challenging

Heartwarming

Reviews & Readership

4.6

161,971 ratings

90%

Loved it

8%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Alfred Lansing's Endurance: Shackleton's Incredible Voyage masterfully recounts the harrowing Antarctic expedition, praising Lansing's engaging narrative and thorough research. Readers are captivated by the vivid portrayal of leadership and survival. Some find the detailed descriptions occasionally overwhelming. Overall, a compelling and inspirational read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Endurance: Shackleton's Incredible Voyage?

Readers drawn to Endurance: Shackleton's Incredible Voyage by Alfred Lansing are typically fascinated by historical adventures, survival stories, and leadership under extreme conditions. Fans of Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer or The Perfect Storm by Sebastian Junger will appreciate the gripping narrative and meticulous research.

4.6

161,971 ratings

90%

Loved it

8%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

Character List

Sir Ernest Shackleton

An adventurer and expedition leader from Ireland, known for his pragmatic experience and intense spirit of adventure. He spearheaded the Imperial Trans Antarctic Expedition and trusted his instincts in leadership.

Shackleton's second-in-command with prior Antarctic exploration experience, known for his calm and analytical thinking. He was entrusted with leading the crew on Elephant Island during Shackleton's rescue mission.

A New Zealander and captain of the Endurance, recognized for his exceptional navigational skills. His expertise was crucial in maintaining the course during the journey from Elephant Island to South Georgia Island.

An Irish expedition member with a quick wit and friendly demeanor. He was selected by Shackleton to join the critical voyage across Drake's Passage to seek help for those on Elephant Island.

An educated physician from England who became emotionally attached to the sled dogs. He accepted the necessity of shooting the dogs to preserve food.

An experienced surgeon who performed a life-saving amputation on stowaway Blackboro under challenging conditions on Elephant Island.

The official photographer of the Endurance expedition, responsible for capturing visual records of the journey.

The expedition's storekeeper, known for his cautious approach to food rationing. His behavior led to a reprimand from Shackleton.

The carpenter of the expedition who improved the crew's living conditions after the loss of the Endurance.

A diligent 19-year-old stowaway who proved useful during the journey, despite suffering gangrene that led to the amputation of his foot.

Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Setting

Antarctica • 1910s

Publication Year

1959

Publisher

Carroll & Graf Publishers

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

13+ years

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