I've been revisiting my books on Ernest Shackleton, and my all-time favorite is still Alfred Lansing's "Endurance: Shackleton's Incredible Voyage to the Antarctic."
Originally published in 1959, it has since seen over 26 republishings. It is the best, most-detailed account of Sir Ernest Shackleton's failed attempt to reach the South Pole. I say "failed attempt" because he didn't reach that goal. However, the fact that all of his men came back alive as well as the tremendous odds which they overcame clearly point to a larger success story here.
Lansing was able to interview at length several of the original crew members, and he had access to lots of their diaries as well. It makes for a wonderful read.
I first stumbled upon the name of Shackleton in Sebastian Junger's "Perfect Storm" back in 1997. He mentions him as crossing the South Polar Sea in an open lifeboat and his survival of a "rogue wave" towering over 90 feet in height! That sparked my interest, and I've been hooked ever since.
I've read several books about Shackleton and this voyage, but this one is the best. If you are looking for an inspiring, true, larger-than-life, unbelievable, kick-hiney story, then this is it!
Until next time, may your reading be pleasurable and profitable!
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