The White Darkness

I love reading this in printed form. For this piece of non fiction, I prefer to have the hard copy in hand, with pictures to look at. I don't recall what I spent on the book (@$10), but I already know how many pages I was buying (160 pages from description, though 146 in book in hand). Sometimes price is a deciding factor, sometimes not. when I really want to read something, I'll pay whatever. I really wanted to read this, so I bought it. I see a lot of negative reviews stating that readers should save their money and just read it out of the magazine (k, where am I going to get this copy?, also if it is just a reprinted mag piece, I am glad it is offered in a format I can enjoy), or figure out a way to get around buying it and read it electronically (hmm, really?). Positive reviews are looked at as though they are part of something scandalous, which undermines an authentic read with genuine enjoyment of this book. Although I initially considered backing away, I actually ultimately decided to -take a chance- purchase my book based on these negative reviews, so thank you! One person's 1 star, is another person's 5 star :) I am already familiar with Grann's writing, so I knew to expect some solid writing. I was not disappointed (phew!). I did not gobble it up in a short sitting (savored it), I don't feel like I am being taken for my money with having spent $10 to read someones work. I've spent more money on less worthwhile reads. And I do understand that value is based on ones perspective. So *I* find value in this read, and because I do so, it does not mean that my review is not genuine. Also, now there are used copies available. That being said, and price aside.. The information shared in this book is clear, concise, well described, and gives me a sense of being there in Antarctica. I was initially drawn to this book, well first because I wanted to see what else Grann has written (KIllers of the Flower Moon is amazing in particular) that I may not have read yet. Secondly, the premise of adventurers in Antarctica- something about long arduous treks really appeal to me, even if only from the comfort of my lazy girl recliner. I knew Grann would lead me as close as I could ever get to being there, with these brave, courageous, risk takers- without my having to leave the house. Not only that, but it spurred an interest in me to seek out even more information about the area and other explorers, their stories, and so on. They may be a bit crazy and selfish, but I can still be a voyeur into that world. Grann helps with that. And THAT absolutely makes this a worthwhile experience, to me. I think it is a gem of a book, and I appreciate this non fiction story. Looking forward to more of his work.

“To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield.” - Ulysses Henry Worsley lost his life at 56, pursuing what some may call an "obsession." Determined to fulfill his dream to cross Antarctica on foot alone and therefore achieve what his hero, Ernest Shackleton, failed to achieve a century earlier, Worsley took his last breath after 71 days traversing the treacherous ice in subzero temperatures. A veritable Renaissance man – husband, father, soldier, explorer, published author, artist, and conqueror of that inner voice – Worsley's strength finally gave out on a solo expedition. When considering his insatiable appetite for pushing the limits of human endurance, many readers may wonder, had Worsley survived, would the solo crossing of Antarctica have been his final achievement? Would this unreformed overachiever retire from extreme exploration? In “The White Darkness,” David Grann does it again. A master of vivid, descriptive narrative nonfiction, the author brilliantly captures Henry Worsley's essence. By recounting the experience as Worsley, the relentless adventurer, details it in his journal and incorporating interviews with those who adventured with him, Grann entertains and enlightens. He documents the boundless determination Worsley displays as he seeks to measure his powers of endurance against Shackleton’s. Additionally, Grann complements his outstanding reporting with exquisite photographs of the forbidding continent of Antarctica. They bring the icy stillness into sharp relief. A relatively short book at 160 pages, in "The White Darkness," we witness as if we are there ourselves how the human body adapts or fails to adapt to extreme cold and how the human mind, for days on end, endures such bleak surroundings. Grann enables the reader to experience the same frigid temperatures, the same muscle fatigue, the same fetid air in the nylon sleeping tent, the same loneliness, and the same windswept vastness and desolation Worsley experiences on his trek. Remarkably, Worsley had already triumphed over Antarctica's "white darkness" on previous expeditions while leading a team of explorers. Learning of this man's extraordinary life consisting of one endurance challenge after another, including completing the grueling United Kingdom Special Forces (UKSF) Special Air Service (SAS) selection course, serving in combat in Southern Afghanistan, and performing peacekeeping duty in Northern Ireland, among others, readers also might wonder why Worsley pushed himself one final time. To some, his propensity for punishing his body in pursuit of achievement appears incomprehensible. Although a committed family man, Worsley's rugged body contained a restless soul. If a monumental challenge, particularly in Antarctica, remained within his grasp, he would not rest. Almost as if to surmount the accomplishments of his idol, Shackleton, Worsley sought to conquer the unconquerable. While Shackleton distinguished himself as a peerless explorer and leader seemingly incapable of surrendering to hardship, Worsley's determination and perseverance in “The White Darkness” appear otherworldly. In the context of Worsley's death pursuing one last first, a solo retracing of Shackleton's steps across Antarctica, it is perhaps instructive to consider the Facebook post of Nancy F. Koehn, author of the book "Ernest Shackleton, Exploring Leadership." She writes, "Worsley considered Shackleton his hero, and now we see Worsley as one of ours." Indeed, Worsley died a hero. Yet, we suspect it was not heroism nor crass immortalization Worsley sought in completing his nearly inconceivable solo trek across Antarctica. No, with superhuman mental and physical toughness, he submits to his unrelenting drive to achieve what eluded his idol. Further, after already embodying Shackleton's surpassing leadership, Worsley exceeds Shackleton's powers of endurance. In his quest to prove to himself that he possessed the mettle to measure up to his idol, he bested him. Unquestionably, Worsley’s exploits leave an indelible legacy of stamina, perseverance, and courage. Given Worsley's extraordinary accomplishments across a lifetime, one seeks a deeper understanding of what drove this man. It was not "obsession," as many may believe. And, yes, he likely would have continued pushing himself to the deepest, darkest recesses of that restive soul to ascend yet another mountain or cross another glacier simply because it remained elusive. But, to this reader, it was first and foremost his family and then the British SAS motto, "Who Dares Wins," that Worsley kept closest to his heart. He embraced both as well as any member of The Regiment before him. “Who Dares Wins”

This is my second book written by David Grann. I really enjoy his writing. He gives you all the facts, but in a heartfelt way that brings you on the journey the people he is talking about. In ‘The White Darkness’, we follow Henry Worsely a British guy with an immense love and admiration for Shackleton, the Polar Explorer. Shackleton was one of three famous men to trek across Antarctica in the early 1900’s. “For scientific leadership, give me Scott; for swift and efficient travel, Amundsen; but when you are in a hopeless situation, when there seems to be no way out, get on your knees and pray for Shackleton.” Henry had many accomplishments in his life. He was a military leader, a British special forces officer. He retired from the military after thirty years. In between he made two trips to Antarctica. The first time with two other descendants of Polar Explorers. Gow and Adams were also in love with adventure and their family stories of bravery. The second time, he took the route of Scott and raced against fellow soldiers to the south pole, the other team taking Amundsen’s route. Both trips to the south pole was a success. Everyone that knew Worsely thought he was a fearless leader. Brave and never stopping. He was optimistic and able to brighten even the bleakest of times. People adored him. With these treks across the white darkness, Worsely was fundraising for his fellow soldiers. Those that were injured in war and in the line of duty. This book at 127 pages, brought tears to my eyes on several occasions, especially at the conclusion and final excursion to Antarctica. Worsely at 55 years of age and finally retired decided he would make one last trip to the frozen desert. A solo trip in 2015, Worsely would trek 900 nautical miles in 80 days. The world watched and each night Worsely would broadcast a good night message and answer questions from mostly the kids following his journey. What I didn’t notice, was the switch of the past tense when David Grann started that last chapter and was devastated to learn the outcome of this last and final trip. With 127 pages including pictures this is a one sit read. I highly recommend if you have a adventurous spirit. If you love reading of others personal and physical journeys and accomplishments pick this book up. It is beautiful and inspiring. Loved this so much. Guess I’m a fan of David Grann, I’ll have to pick up another book by him soon.

Fabulous book/ story! He is such a great writer!!

Just like everything David Grann writes, this was a tremendously crafted and entertaining read, absolutely worth anyone's time regardless of your interests. But it was also little more than a couple of magazine articles edited together. I read the entire "book" on a one-hour train commute to work. That's absolutely not worth $11.99, particularly when his full-length "Killers of the Flower Moon" is the same price. EDIT: After writing this review I discovered the original two articles that make up this book are still available on the New Yorker’s website - for free. In other words, you could use the Send to Kindle extension and read the exact same thing for $0 instead of $12. Seems grossly unfair.

The White Darkness was originally published as essays in the New Yorker. They are collected here with the addition of photographs and some additional text. After having listened to Endurance I was left longing for more. The White Darkness is about the descendants of the famed Shackleton and his mate Worsley and their attempts to walk in the footsteps of their ancestors on the anniversaries of their accomplishments. Their ancestors are heroes to many, but especially their lineage. The White Darkness is all about mental toughness and we get in the head of these modern day Antarctic explorers. It is both motivational and inspiring. It is incredible what the human mind and body can endure. The Antarctic becomes an obsession and the reader gets an inside look at what individuals are willing to do and what it takes to achieve the fabled endeavor. There are some great quotes that capture the essence of the reading (and Antarctic) experience: “As it is true of many adventurers, he seemed to be on an inward quest as much as an outward one-the journey was a way to subject himself to an ultimate test of character.” and “Men go out into the void spaces of the world for various reasons. Some are actuated simply by a love of adventure, some have the keen thirst for scientific knowledge, and others again are drawn away from the trodden paths by the ‘lure of little voices’, the mysterious fascination of the unknown.”

Beautifully written accounting of the superhuman efforts of a remarkably driven yet humble individual. I know it will stay with me.

Short, but a good book, I liked it. Henry Worsley loved Antarctica, he was almost obsessed with it. There is a quote in the book: “Passion for something can so easily turn into obsession, which is a dangerous thing …” He accomplished two expeditions as part of a group that walked to the South Pole – and wanted to become the first person to do it solo – an unbelievable challenge. But after nearly 800 miles and 71 days, he called for evacuation. His body was shot, he died two days later.