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.

A Compelling Read (or Listen)

Very excellent. Huntford's done an excellent job here of comparing Scott's and Amundsen's expeditions to the South Pole, alternating back and forth between the two parties, beginning with their backgrounds. It's easy to see who's the villain in Huntford's view; Scott comes across here as nothing more than a stubborn, arrogant, unintelligent bumbler. I'm thinking this is not the most balanced of accounts, but it's certainly well-told! Sometimes it feels a little too generalized or surfacy, but this is an abridged version of Huntford's book, so I imagine there are quite a few details that got left out for time's sake. In any case, I highly recommended it.

Fantastic Story!

Loved the book. Just the right length and detail to capture your interest. I really liked the comparison and contrast between Amundsen and Scott. I also appreciated that the drama of the death of Scott and his compatriots was not played out and not dragged on. Amundsen is rightly enshrined as the model explorer to which future generations should emulate.

RIVETING ACCOUNT OF POLAR EXPLORATION

Well narrated, packed with previously unknown details, wait until you find out how Amundsen's team dealt with there waste while wintering in the Antarctic . The competent against the incompetent.

Simply fantastic

While other stories of great voyages offer great insights, the example and counter-example of Scott and Amundsen is the best there is. Two people trying to achieve the same goal at the same time with completely different philosophies. To hear Amundsen's life of preparation and attention to detail versus Scott's uneven preparation and hasty plans is both a great story and a great life lesson.

The truth eventually comes out - but in this case way too late!

This is a story that I recommend to EVERYONE! I have read Cherie Garrard’s account too, and wow, is this one ever different. What a cover-up in favor of Scott, that this book finally exposes.
I wonder, however, whether this book leans a bit too far to discredit Scott. But I agree - if ever there was an explorer that deserved to die sue to really stupid errors, it was him
The book is very well read by Piggot-Smith, and is apparently well researched, and written in a convincing style.
The tragedy is that it came about 40 years too late. Amundsen is the real hero, no question about that