An Unsung Hero

Tom Crean – Antarctic Survivor

By: Michael Smith

Narrated by: Gerry O'Brien

Tom Crean was the farmer’s son from Kerry who sailed on three major expeditions to the unknown Antarctic over a century ago. He served with both Captain Robert Scott and Sir Ernest Shackleton, spent longer on the ice than either and outlived them both.

But Tom Crean returned to Ireland and never spoke about his exploits, taking his incredible story to the grave – until the publication of An Unsung Hero, which unearthed his story and saw him rightfully placed amongst the annals of the great explorers.

©2009 Michael Smith (P)2021 Bolinda Publishing

Critic reviews

"Michael Smith has written a splendid biography." (The Nautical Magazine)

"The epic struggles, heroics and the unbelievable hardships of the voyages are wonderfully told." (The Irish Times)

"Wonderful Kiplingesque yarn about a great Irishman who didn't have to die to become a hero." (Irish Independent)

Incredibly Engrossing

It was excellent. I loved how much detail was shared and provided. Definitely a must read.

Well told account of this shy hero

Tom Crean is a legendary Irish explorer to Antarctica. Unsung Hero does a good job of telling his story and helping the reader understand the political, environmental and cultural issues that impacted the attempts to explore Antarctica in the early 1900’s.

Tom Crean: Respected and Admired

I really loved him the book goes through Tom Creans life, especially the inclusion of his expeditions with Scott and Shackleton. It was a great portrayal of his strength and courage while remaining a humble man. well written and well read!

Brilliant

Outstandingly paced, with an informative few chapters on Creans early life. Steps up a level during Scott's Exhibitions, before an astoundly great retelling of Creans role during Shackeltons escape.

Brilliantly engaging when read alongside other authors accounts of events. The focus on an individual survivor makes for a much more compelling, emotional narrative.

Overall, very pleased.

The fearless of a hero who truly was unsung and persevered under the mist challenging circumstances!

Liked the storyline, and it was very emotional. Breen was a superlative person who puts others interests above his own. He was a truly laudable person who never sought out fame nor capitalized on it. Hard not to admire an exemplary person who was a team player his whole life. There are multiple reasons to admire this man, He tried to do the right thing and was faithful to that mission. I feel fortunate to have learned about this man’s life, which took place a hundred years ago in a far away place.