FOURTEEN MEN

by Arthur Scholes ‧ RELEASE DATE: Feb. 14, 1951

In the speedy, jaunty language of a sportsman and explorer who thoroughly enjoys his occupation, Scholes has written the story of a research expedition to Heard Island in the Antarctic. Under the direction of the Australian National Antarctic Research Expedition, Scholes as radio operator and a group of fourteen others were sent to study cosmic rays, make auroral and magnetic observations, tidal records, geological and glaciological surveys, as well as to map the island, heretofore surrounded only by not too reliable tales of its rather mysterious history marked by the escapades of whalers in the last century. Scholes' account is highlighted by the usual deeds. There is the slow, icy journey south, the establishment of Atlas Cove camp, hardships caused by cold, by the intermittent perversity of their scientific instruments, the capturing of some penguins, the eventual return home and the rewards of a job well done. Good reading for the armchair scientist-explorer. Good documentary evidence for the man who's actually done it, though not stimulating enough to create any real new interest.

Pub Date: Feb. 14, 1951

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Dutton

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Feb. 1, 1951

Categories: NONFICTION