Ken McGoogan

Elisha Kent Kane travelled from the US to the Arctic in search of Franklin’s lost expedition in the mid-1800s. This covers not only this “trip” (where he and his crew were trapped for a couple of winters), but the bulk of Kane’s life, as well. He studied to become a doctor, but found he wanted to sail to the Arctic (despite being prone to seasickness). He loved a woman whom his family did not think was “good enough” for him, and things did not go well for the two of them, though she loved him, as well.

It took a long time for me to get interested in this (I have no explanation as to why this was). I was more interested in the second half of the book. The author looks at multiple sources detailing the expedition, as some of the crew did not think highly of Kane and others had no problem with him. The author did look at some of these specific sources at the end of the book to discuss.… (mais)

I really got into this history of the search for the Northwest Passage. Very well written, and the author went well beyond the traditional sources of historical knowledge to bring in the perspectives and knowledge of Inuit from Canada and Greenland. I enjoyed their stories as well as learning the roles they played in helping so many European explorers.

I was totally intrigued by the story of Lady Franklin. She was a masterful "spin doctor" or reputation manager for her husband. She ensured he was credited with discovering the Northwest Passage (even though he hadn't) and she ensured his place in history by creating several memorials in his name.

The book is thorough but never boring. An excellent read.… (mais)