‘timely and thorough… as a buccaneering Edwardian adventurer, as chaotic and hapless in his private life as he was dynamic in his public exploits, [Shackleton] is rescued by Michael Smith’s genial biography as a flawed, enduring inspiration.’

– The Times

'A rich volume, written in a passionate, engaging style that makes it a compelling read, full of nuanced conclusions about many of Shackleton’s formative life moments, and meticulously researched, as with all of Michael Smith’s work.'

– Irish Times

‘Absorb[ing]… a fair and rounded picture of a man who was a great companion and leader in a tight corner but possibly better viewed across an iceberg than across a boardroom table or a martial bedroom’

– Country Life

‘a fresh perspective… very readable… Smith’s research has uncovered some interesting side stories’

– Good Book Guide

'fast-moving and gripping… Michael Smith’s biography shows us a complex multi-faceted man’

– Scottish Review of Books

‘Diligently researched with extensive quotation… a welcome addition to the library of the polar aficionado’

– Literary Review

‘Smith’s research is detailed and meticulous… fascinating… [He] tells [the story] with passion and commitment.’

– Spectator

'Compelling'

– History Revealed

‘Fascinating’

– Bookseller

"The epic struggles, heroics and unbelieveable hardships of the voyages are wonderfully told. Compulsive reading."

– The Irish Times on An Unsung Hero

‘A fascinating book - warm, complex, engaging – just like the man himself. This absorbing new biography strips away the myths and misconceptions to reveal one of the twentieth century’s most important explorers in all his flawed genius.’

– Mick Conefrey, author of Everest, 1953

'Perhaps the most riveting biography I've ever read.'

– Orlando Sentinel on An Unsung Hero