There are more famous names than Tom Crean’s from the “heroic age” of Antarctic exploration, but there are few stories as compelling as his. The Antarctic is a harsh place of bitter cold and darkness, where only the strong and resourceful can hope to survive. Crean was such a man. Time and again he was one of three--at times the only one--whose courage in the face of insurmountable odds saved the lives of his companions. Had he weakened and failed the lives of all might well have been lost, and their stories remained untold. He left no diary or book; his few letters speak modestly of his exploits, if at all. Tom Crean: Sailor on Ice tells the story of a common man in uncommon circumstances, who met every challenge as it came with steadfast purpose. If he knew fear, he never showed it. Sailor on Ice goes with him from England to the Antarctic plateau, and back. We share his trials as they happen—the thrill of discovery, the danger of the sea-ice, the terror of extreme isolation, the tragedy of the deaths of his closest friends. Tom Crean was not most renowned of the explorers during those early years of Antarctic discovery. For that, the palms go to Shackleton, Amundsen, and Scott, with the names of other leaders not far behind. Other men, better educated and connected, would publish the stories of hardship and adventure that astonished the world. Crean’s name is occasionally mentioned in these works, as it should be; his was a distinguished career of service, not as a leader, but as a seaman. His story is not one of trial and privation leading to a tragic end, because without one man’s endurance and unflinching resolve in the face of hopeless adversity, there would be no survivors. The familiar names belong to those who claimed to lead, but those who lead are nothing without those who come a few steps behind, hauling the gear, pitching the camp, walking the long walk, steadfast, enduring. Without them, there would be no leaders. There would be no survivors, and no story to be told.
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About the Author
David Hirzel landed at Sky Ranch overlooking Pacifica, California at the end of 30 years of wandering that started in West Virginia, with extended stops in Florida, Virginia, Lake Tahoe and various points between. In the course of time he has published numerous poems, stories and articles, two plays and an online audiodrama at
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4 of 4 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars
Sailor On Ice: Tom Crean
23 July 2011
By TC
- Published on Amazon.com
Format:Paperback
I was able to purchase a copy directly from the author at a book signing. His talk gave us a behind the scenes look at the passion he has on the subject and it increased my desire to dive into a look at one of the exploration party.
The book was wonderful and provided a style of writing that made you imagine you were right next to Tom Crean. You can feel the mental and physical rigors this man and the entire group went through. It was hard to put down and after finishing it have already given it to someone to enjoy it as well. A truly amazing read and I highly recommend it.
The book was wonderful and provided a style of writing that made you imagine you were right next to Tom Crean. You can feel the mental and physical rigors this man and the entire group went through. It was hard to put down and after finishing it have already given it to someone to enjoy it as well. A truly amazing read and I highly recommend it.
4 of 4 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars
A fantastic read
11 July 2011
By Diana
- Published on Amazon.com
Format:Paperback
Stories of historic leaders are always prominent, but rarely do we read the stories of the lesser known participants of great adventures. Tom Crean is one of these lesser known men. His courage, resourcefulness, determination, strenght and ability make for a riviting story. I highly recommend this true story.
3 of 3 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars
Great Educational Read
9 Jan 2012
By fifi
- Published on Amazon.com
Format:Paperback
I am not an avid reader, except for financial information, but I found David Hirzel's book "Sailor On Ice: Tom Crean" to be a wonderful read. It was very educational, and I learned much about the heroes of Antarctic exploration. It was so descriptive I could feel myself amidst the men experiencing their adventures with the beauty of the snow and ice and the pain of starvation and cold. Their attachment with the animals (dogs and ponies) and their loss was very emotional. It is very obvious David Hirzel did an exhaustive research of his subject matter. The book is very well written and an easy read. It was the perfect length for someone like me. Towards the end of the book, I could not put it down as I was very anxious to find out more about the search for the polar party. I am a female. It took me a while to get into the book, but I am recommending it to my husband and anyone who is looking for an exciting and adventurous read. The Glosary of Antarctic and Ice Terms was exceptional in its detail and very helpful to a novice like me. Go out, purchase and read this book!
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