Subject
Arctic regions -- Discovery and exploration -- Fiction Books
Best books
Wilkie Collins
The Frozen Deep
"The Frozen Deep" by Wilkie Collins is a play written in 1856 under the substantial guidance of Charles Dickens. Born from Dickens's emotional response to reports of cannibalism in the doomed Franklin Arctic expedition, this allegorical drama transformed tragedy into theatrical triumph. With Dickens as both stage manager and lead actor, the production moved audiences to tears—from Queen Victoria to common stagehands. The play also fatefully introduced Dickens to actress Ellen Ternan, altering his personal life forever. Its powerful death scene became legendary in Victorian theater.
Frank Norris
A man's woman
"A Man's Woman" by Frank Norris is a novel written in 1900. Arctic explorer Ward Bennett returns home a hero after a harrowing expedition to the North Pole. He finds himself drawn to Lloyd Searight, a strong-willed nurse from a wealthy background. When tragedy strikes and Bennett's closest friend dies, their relationship fractures. As they navigate reconciliation and marriage, both must confront whether love means surrendering their ambitions—or whether true devotion means supporting each other's callings, no matter the cost.
Jules Verne
The Waif of the "Cynthia"
"The Waif of the 'Cynthia'" by Jules Verne and André Laurie is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story explores themes of identity and belonging through the life of Erik Hersebom, a boy raised by a fisherman and his wife after being found abandoned on the sea. Central to the narrative is Erik's journey of self-discovery as he learns about his mysterious origins and the possibilities of his future. At the start of the book, the reader is introduced to Mr. Malarius, a schoolmaster, and the renowned Dr. Schwaryencrona. The scene unfolds in a primary school in Norway where Dr. Schwaryencrona unexpectedly visits, leading to an impressive evaluation of Erik, who impresses the doctor with his advanced knowledge despite being a fisherman's son. The premise reveals Erik's adoption and hints at a potential hidden lineage, which is further developed as Erik's family discusses the opportunity for him to continue his education under Dr. Schwaryencrona’s guidance. The opening sets the stage for Erik's internal struggle between loyalty to his adopted family and the allure of discovering his true roots.
Frank Norris
Naisen mahti
"Naisen mahti" by Frank Norris is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book follows the harrowing journey of an Arctic expedition led by Ward Bennett, who faces not only the physical challenges of navigating through treacherous icy terrain but also the psychological strains experienced by his crew. Their struggle for survival against the unforgiving elements becomes a compelling narrative about human endurance and the will to succeed. The beginning of the novel sets the scene during a grueling Arctic expedition where Bennett and his men, exhausted from continuous efforts to traverse a thick field of ice, find themselves grappling with the harsh realities of their environment. As they make slow progress towards their destination, Bennett's leadership and determination shine through. The opening details the crew's dire circumstances, freezing temperatures, and dwindling supplies, as well as Bennett’s resolve to push forward despite the seemingly insurmountable obstacles. The introduction effectively establishes an atmosphere of tension and foreboding, hinting at the struggle that lies ahead for these men against the formidable forces of nature.
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