Praise

★ “A gripping account of a disastrous 1879 American expedition to find the North Pole. Finding the pole, “the world’s greatest mystery,” so captured the public’s imagination that more than 1,200 men applied for the 24 positions as sailors. The authors skillfully incorporate quotes from journals, letters, and official documents. Vivid language and narrative techniques such as cliffhangers maximize the drama, while well-chosen anecdotes convey the personalities. Highly appealing narrative nonfiction for anyone who loves true adventure.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review

★ “Extensively researched and illustrated with engravings and paintings contemporary to the 1879 Arctic voyage of the Jeannette, (this) book presents an exemplary example of how to piece together an intriguing story from a variety of sources… Readers of historical adventure will be drawn to the story and appreciate the crew’s bravery.” —Booklist, starred review  

“The Wallaces bring to vivid life the exciting tale of Lieutenant Commander George W. De Long, expertly incorporating quotes from his and others’ journals… A fascinating authors’ note lets young readers in on ‘the thrills of research,’ and the thorough back matter includes a bibliography…source notes, an index, and picture credits.” —The Horn Book

“The Wallaces bring the adventure to life not only with their thorough research and incorporation of crewmembers’ journal entries, letters and other official documents, but also because they tell the story in crisp, vibrant language. Any fan of adventure will easily immerse him/herself in the gripping drama as each chapter, each cliffhanger unfolds.” —VOYA

“The story…is as compelling as any reader could wish, and the Wallaces retell it with clarity and economy. (A)n engrossing rapid read for survival-story fans.” —The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books  

 “Drawing heavily on the journals of the crew of the U.S.S. Jeanette, the Wallaces recount in riveting prose the ship’s ill-fated, two-year voyage (1879-1881) in search of warm waters then thought to surround the North Pole. Abundant archival illustrations, bibliography, and source notes bolster this gripping, accessible account.” —Publishers Weekly  

“(T)his book uses personal journals, letters, illustrations, and photos to bring to life a piece of US history. Well-researched and engaging, this book would be helpful for research as well as for pleasure reading.” —School Library Connection