Michael Smith, a former journalist, is an established authority on polar exploration. He has written a number of books including An Unsung Hero: Tom Crean Antarctic Survivor, which was short-listed for the Banff Mountain Book Festival 2002. The illustrated version was shortlisted for the Irish Published Book of the Year 2007. He contributes to TV and radio documentaries and lectures on polar history.
‘timely and thorough… as a buccaneering Edwardian adventurer, as
chaotic and hapless in his private life as he was dynamic in his
public exploits, [Shackleton] is rescued by Michael Smith’s genial
biography as a flawed, enduring inspiration.’
*The Times*
'A rich volume, written in a passionate, engaging style that makes
it a compelling read, full of nuanced conclusions about many of
Shackleton’s formative life moments, and meticulously researched,
as with all of Michael Smith’s work.'
*Irish Times*
‘Absorb[ing]… a fair and rounded picture of a man who was a great
companion and leader in a tight corner but possibly better viewed
across an iceberg than across a boardroom table or a martial
bedroom’
*Country Life*
‘a fresh perspective… very readable… Smith’s research has uncovered
some interesting side stories’
*Good Book Guide*
'fast-moving and gripping… Michael Smith’s biography shows us a
complex multi-faceted man’
*Scottish Review of Books*
‘Diligently researched with extensive quotation… a welcome addition
to the library of the polar aficionado’
*Literary Review*
‘Smith’s research is detailed and meticulous… fascinating… [He]
tells [the story] with passion and commitment.’
*Spectator*
'Compelling'
*History Revealed*
‘Fascinating’
*Bookseller*
"The epic struggles, heroics and unbelieveable hardships of the
voyages are wonderfully told. Compulsive reading."
*The Irish Times on An Unsung Hero*
‘A fascinating book - warm, complex, engaging – just like the man
himself. This absorbing new biography strips away the myths and
misconceptions to reveal one of the twentieth century’s most
important explorers in all his flawed genius.’
*Mick Conefrey, author of Everest, 1953*
'Perhaps the most riveting biography I've ever read.'
*Orlando Sentinel on An Unsung Hero*
Ask a Question About this Product More... |