The Worst Journey in the World

by Apsley Cherry-Garrard, Caroline Alexander, Apsley Cherry-Garrard
The Worst Journey in the World cover
Good Books rating 4.17
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Paperback • £14.99 Hardback • £22.99
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  • ID: 1238
  • Added: 2025-10-01
  • Updated: 2025-11-29
  • ISBN: 9781510707580
  • Publisher: Simon and Schuster
  • Published: 2016-08-09
  • Formats: 2
  • Reviews: 4

The Worst Journey in the World is a gripping exploration narrative by Apsley Cherry-Garrard, detailing the doomed final voyage of Captain Robert Scott and his crew to the South Pole. The book vividly describes the Terra Nova expedition from 1910 to 1913, highlighting the crew's relentless pursuit of scientific knowledge and their struggle against the brutal Antarctic conditions. Driven by a desire to be the first Europeans to reach the South Pole, the team faced unimaginable challenges, including extreme weather, physical and mental decline, and the devastating news that rival explorer Roald Amundsen had beaten them to their goal. The final stages of their journey were marked by peril and tragedy, making it one of the most harrowing tales of exploration ever told. Cherry-Garrard's account is not just a story of adventure but also a testament to human endurance and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. The book provides a detailed chronicle of the expedition, offering insights into the scientific objectives and the personal sacrifices made by the crew. Despite the tragic outcome, the narrative serves as a powerful reminder of the indomitable spirit of exploration and the lengths to which humans will go in the name of discovery.

Reviews
Barnes & Noble · 2025-10-01
compelling 4.00

The book is praised for its vivid and detailed narrative, offering a deep understanding of the expedition's challenges. The reviewer finds it to be a compelling read for history enthusiasts.

The reviewer highlights the vivid and detailed narrative that brings the expedition to life. They find the book to be a compelling read, especially for those interested in history and exploration. The reviewer appreciates the depth of the narrative, which provides a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by the explorers. The book is seen as a valuable addition to the literature on Antarctic exploration, offering both historical insights and a gripping story.

Quick quotes

    A firsthand account of Scott's disastrous Antarctic expedition.

    The Worst Journey in the World recounts Robert Falcon Scott's ill-fated expedition to the South Pole.

    The book offers a deep understanding of the expedition's challenges and the resilience of the explorers.

Goodreads · 2025-10-01
classic 4.20

The book is seen as a classic account of Antarctic exploration, filled with detailed descriptions and a sense of adventure. The narrative is both informative and engaging.

The reviewer considers this book a classic in the genre of exploration literature. They appreciate the detailed descriptions of the expedition, which provide a vivid picture of the challenges faced by the explorers. The narrative is both informative and engaging, making it a must-read for anyone interested in polar exploration. The reviewer also notes that the book's historical significance adds to its appeal, offering insights into the early days of Antarctic exploration.

Quick quotes

    The Worst Journey in the World recounts Robert Falcon Scott's ill-fated expedition to the South Pole.

    Apsley Cherry-Garrard, the youngest member of Scott's team, provides a firsthand account of the harrowing journey.

    The book is filled with detailed descriptions and a sense of adventure that keeps the reader engaged.

Vole Explosion · 2023-04-15
inspiring 4.50

The book is a testament to the resilience and camaraderie of the expedition team, highlighting their determination and self-sacrifice. The narrative is gripping and evocative, capturing the harsh realities of their journey.

This book is a powerful exploration of human endurance and the bonds formed in the face of extreme adversity. The reviewer appreciates the raw and unfiltered account of the expedition, which serves as a poignant reminder of the cost of ambition and the indomitable spirit of those who ventured into the unknown. The detailed descriptions of the hardships endured and the emotional toll on the team members make for a compelling read. The reviewer also notes the book's ability to convey the sense of camaraderie and the shared determination that kept the team going despite the overwhelming odds.

Quick quotes

    This is a book about camaraderie, self-sacrifice, hard graft in pursuit of a higher calling, determination in the sure knowledge of failure.

    The narrative is gripping and evocative, capturing the harsh realities of their journey.

    The detailed descriptions of the hardships endured and the emotional toll on the team members make for a compelling read.

The People's Friend · 2020-08-27
moving 4.00

The book is deeply personal and emotionally charged, reflecting the profound impact of the expedition on Cherry-Garrard. The reviewer is moved by the author's candid reflections on the losses and the enduring legacy of the journey.

The reviewer finds Cherry-Garrard's account to be deeply personal and emotionally resonant, particularly in his reflections on the deaths of his companions. The book's raw honesty and emotional depth make it a poignant read, offering a unique perspective on the human cost of exploration. The reviewer appreciates the author's ability to convey the sense of loss and the enduring impact of the expedition on his life. The narrative is not just a historical account but a deeply personal journey that resonates with the reader on an emotional level.

Quick quotes

    Cherry-Garrard's experience deeply affected him.

    The book's raw honesty and emotional depth make it a poignant read.

    The narrative is not just a historical account but a deeply personal journey that resonates with the reader on an emotional level.

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