Scott and Amundsen

Their Race to the South Pole

By: Roland Huntford

Narrated by: Tim Piggott-Smith

This is a brilliant dual biography charting British Robert Scott's and Norwegian Roald Amundsen's race to the South Pole during 1911-12. Huntuford's is the accepted, definitive account of the race and a reassessment of the two men. Thoroughly researched, revealing the adventures and misfortunes that befell them both, he describes the driving ambitions of the era, and the complex, often deeply flawed individuals who were charged with carrying them out.©2006 CSA Telltapes Ltd. (P)2006 CSA Telltapes Ltd.

Critic reviews

"Fascinating, and a well-chosen narrator." ( The Oldie)

A wonderful story

Little fast paced at some points but the history that's displayed here would have taken countless years to tell, great read nonetheless

Very good read.

5 stars I reserve for the best of the best. this was a good historical read

Excellent account of amazing story

Not having read the story when I was 12, I found it completely engrossing now. I'll have to read another account as well, just to make sure that Huntford is not unduly harsh on Scott. But if his account is even remotely true, then he - umm, spoiler alert - was a selfish, self-indulgent s.o.b. with half a brain, who pretty much effed up a serious expedition killed his companions through his moronic inability to prepare, learn his lessons, take advice and generally display intelligence at every stage of the journey. By contrast, Amundsen was careful, alert, a great planner etc etc. It might be just that the story is told in contrasting scenes and that Huntford was biased, but whatever the case, I found it a fascinating read.

Incredible story

After 1912 Scott was presented as the perfect hero with many facts hidden. 50 years later the truth about his weakeness and management style were finally presented with the historical facts. This books is from that period. This said the book is excellent.

Brilliant

What a great story. I couldn't stop listening to it as it was so fascinating and I wanted to learn more about two very different approaches to reaching the South Pole for the very first time. Terrific book and highly recommend.