An Unsung Hero by Michael Smith, 0747253579, Lowest Book Price Finder

Customer Reviews:

Wandering around in Antarctica

I have been a big fan of all Antarctic exploration stories since first reading Scott by Sir Ranulph. It fired my imagination and compelled me to read more on the subject. I gradually formed a good picture in my head of Tom Crean, a man who I always thought must have a real asset to any adventure and to find a book based on the man himself was a real treat. I found the book very difficult to put down. It offers a good insight into Crean's background, his roles in the various expeditions, his relationships with others, his incredibly endearing character and the many heroic acts he performed. The photographs in the book are terrific and I often found myself wandering around in the scenes presented to me in the pages of the book.
I have always found the lesser known players in these snowy expeditions to be extraordinarily interesting and I think Michael Smith's book is a case in point. This is one of my favourite books and I'm secretly hoping that Mr Smith can be tempted to write a few more books on the other hardy members of the historic Antarctic expeditions.

Absolutely Superb!!

I fell in love with Tom Crean shortly into the book. The book makes you realise how tragic it is that his heroism has only come to light in the last few years. Others took all the glory for Tom whilst he quietly made his way home to Ireland to live out his years unknown for his feats of bravery. I agree with a previous reviewer who says that anybody with only a tiny interest in Antartic Exploration should read An Unsung Hero. Beautifully written. The best book I've read in several months... Buy it!

The Real Quiet Man

I am ashamed to say that my copy of this book gathered dust on a shelf for almost a year! Once started, I found Michael Smith's book totally riveting as he tells Tom Crean's story so well. And what a story!

Weaving together copious research and well-chosen extracts from letters, diaries and recounts of the Discovery and Endurance expeditions with his own compelling narrative, Crean's quiet, remarkable and stalwart character is paid a well-deserved homage.

If such a thing is possible, I shall be more reflective over my next pint in the South Pole Inn at Annascaul (Crean's pub). If, like me, you occasionally feel your life dragging its heels, read this and your burdens - whatever they may be - will suddenly feel lighter!

Crean's adventures alongside Scott and Shackleton are remarkable: not only was he one of the last to see Scott heading off to the Pole but Crean also survived by the narrowest margin the Southern Ocean and South Georgia crossings through which Shackleton sought rescue for his men.

Crean survived. I'm glad his story has too.

Introduction to Antarctic Exploration

A wonderful tale, told simply and brilliantly. Crean's story is one of almost unbelievable bravery, dedication and (excuse the pun) endurance. A chance purchase which has made an indelible impression upon me. I now cannot get enough of the Antarctic, its heroes, ghosts and the sheer power of the continent itself. For anyone interested in the human psyche I would recommend this book highly. For anyone interested in Antarctic exploration it is a must.

Biography of an unsung hero

An absolutely unbelievable and fascinating account of the life of one of the lesser known pioneers of Antarctica exploration in the early part of the twentieth century. Again and again you question whether or not you are reading fact or fantasy. The book was completely riveting and I couldn't put it down. Michael Smith has constructed a well-written and informative account of the life of Tom Creann, which I would heartily recommend to any person with even a passing interest in Antarctic exploration or indeed any type of adventure stories. A fitting testament to the life of an unassuming and genuine hero.

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