The White Darkness

Jenna's Book Club

Telling the story of a courageous man who would not let sub-zero temperatures, injuries, and illness stop him, "The White Darkness" by David Grann is an incredible read.

It was 2008 when Henry Worsley and two companions set off on a trek across the frozen, desolate landscape of Antarctica. Worsley was a relative of Frank Worsley, an early Antarctic explorer himself and had spent his life idolizing Ernest Shackleton, the leader of his relative's expedition. 

In the face of blizzards, illness, exhaustion and injuries, Henry Worsley and his companions bravely soldiered on, defying all odds and successfully completing their expedition.

Seven years later, in 2015, Worsley decided to once again travel to Antarctica-this time setting off on his own. Refusing to let anything daunt him, Worsley fought his way through sub-zero temperatures, frostbite, and hypothermia.

I will say that this book has seriously made me consider attempting an Antarctic expedition myself (not on my own!) Being an outdoorswoman and trained in search and rescue and wilderness first aid, if I could find a few others that would be willing to accompany me, I would not say no to an Antarctic backpacking trip.

Antarctica is still a land devoid of permanent human settlement. Only scientists and researchers temporarily reside there, and it's been said that it's not likely that Antarctica will be fit for true human settlement anytime in the near future...just as they were saying only two hundred years ago about the American West...and look how that turned out.

And yes, in case anyone was wondering, HENRY WORSLEY WAS AUTISTIC!!! VERY!!!

(And look at all that he was able to accomplish.)