Play Book Tag discussion

Ice Ghosts: The Epic Hunt for the Lost Franklin Expedition by Paul Watson - 4 stars - My Review

In 1845, Sir John Franklin set out with two ships, Erebus and Terror, and a crew of 128 to find the Northwest Passage connecting the Atlantic and the Pacific. The first part describes the preparations, what is known of the voyage, and the many attempts made to locate the lost ships and crew (including guidance from the spirit world.) The second tells of the Inuit’s life in the arctic, oral traditions, superstitions, and their knowledge of the expedition. The third depicts the modern-day search, which eventually resulted in the discovery of both ships.

I had heard of the Franklin Expedition but had never read any detail about its failed attempt. I am impressed by Lady Franklin’s diligence in trying to find her husband. I am glad the Inuit finally got credit for what they knew. If anyone had bothered to listen to them without racial prejudice, more artifacts could have been found closer to the time of the tragedy.

It is more focused on the attempts to find the ships than on the expedition itself. It is for people that do not mind a bit of meandering into topics that are related but not necessarily essential. I gained an understanding of the basics, but there are many remaining questions.