Robin Knox-Johnston aboard the Suhaili
There is nothing quite like a real life adventure book to stir the soul and put present distresses in their proper perspective. If you enjoy this genre too, then I would highly recommend two books for your reading pleasure: Endurance, by Alfred Lansing and A Voyage for Madmen, by Peter Nichols.
Wow.
Endurance (subtitle: Shackleton's Incredible Voyage) is an account of the Ernest Shackleton's failed attempt to cross the Antarctic in 1914. A Voyage for Madmen (subtitle: Nine men set out to race each other around the world. Only one made it back.) is the account of the impromptu race sponsored by the London Globe in 1968 to see who could be the first to circumnavigate the globe alone, without stopping or re-provisioning. Both tales portray the lives of men taken to the utter limits of deprivation, fear, physical exhaustion and mental stamina. A-mazing.
Drop me a line if you read either one. I'd love to hear your thoughts.
1 comment:
I am an adventure book junkie, and 'Endurance' by A Lansing is an all time favorite. I've read both the books you mention. 'Endurance' shows strong character and fortitude in action, where concern for others is the prime motivating factor. 'A Voyage for Madmen' also required fortitude for success, but the motivation was self-centered pride.
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