I picked this up because I previously read and enjoyed Barrett’s collection, Ship Fever, which won the National Book Award in 1996. This subsequent novel is a well-researched, meaty work of historical fiction about arctic exploration in the middle of the nineteenth century. It is well-written and includes lots of interesting historical and scientific details. I wouldn’t have minded a tad more characterization, especially among the minor characters, some of whom never really quite came to life for me. Still, this is solid literary fiction that I would especially recommend to those with an interest in exploration, science, natural history, or related topics. As an interesting personal connection, Philadelphia figured prominently in the book and because I have lived in suburban Philadelphia all my life, I enjoyed that aspect. I would definitely like to continue to read more of Barrett’s writing.

I hope the finder enjoys the book!