A Fabulous Kingdom: The Exploration of the Arctic

Cary, North Carolina, U.S.A.: Oxford Univ Pr, 2001. Edition not stated. Quarter cloth. 222 pp. Inconstant and forbidding, the arctic has lured voyagers into the cold for centuries, pushing themselves beyond the limits of their knowledge, technology, and stamina. This book charts these quests and the eventual race for the North Pole in unprecedented detail. "A brisk-paced survey of a fascinating subject, A Fabulous Kingdom provides an engaging introduction to the history of Arctic exploration -- with the occasional dash to the Antarctic thrown in for good measure. Beginning with the ancient Greeks and proceeding to the present, Officer and Page bring to life the passion and perseverance -- and, at times, the folly and foolhardiness -- that animated the mariners, explorers, and scholars who sought to unlock the secrets of the polar world. The authors' scientific backgrounds provide their history with a solid grounding -- and a definite sense of place --that are particularly welcome. Portraits of familiar figures such as Nansen, Amundsen, Cook, and Peary are well-drawn, and a host of lesser-known characters come to life as well." John McCannon. Fine in just about fine dustjacket.. Hard Cover. Fine/Near Fine. 8vo - over 7¾" - 9¾" tall.