Publishers Weekly
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Disney animator Airriess (The Princess and the Frog), an associate at the Scott Polar Research Institute, debuts with a standout graphic adaptation of Antarctic explorer Cherry-Garrard’s account of his 1910–1913 expedition to the South Pole. This terrific first volume in a four-part series introduces dozens of characters and immerses readers in early 20th-century life aboard the whaler Terra Nova, recounting its journey from Cardiff to the pack icebergs surrounding Antarctica. Especially thrilling is an extended sequence of a savage storm that almost sinks the boat before its crew reaches the continent. Interspersed with the high seas scenes are vignettes of everyday life onboard, with well-researched nautical and scientific details. There’s also room made for lighter moments, such as the traditional hazing of crew crossing the equator for the first time. In another memorable episode, penguins are brought on board and served as a Christmas treat. Airriess’s distinctive character designs, sweeping tropical and polar vistas, and well-chosen anecdotes form a sweeping, majestic saga that achieves the rare feat of being both educational and entertaining. Readers will eagerly await the rest of the adventure. (Oct.)

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From Booklist, Copyright © American Library Association. Used with permission.

In 1910, Cherry-Garrard joined the crew of the Terra Nova, led by Captain Robert F. Scott, on an expedition to the South Pole. In 1922, he published his account of the adventure in the critically acclaimed book The Worst Journey in the World. In the first volume of the graphic-novel adaptation by Airriess, readers follow Terra Nova’s early journey from its start in Cardiff as it makes various stops along the way and survives a brutal storm before finally reaching Antarctica. While Airriess provides an easily accessible account of the journey via dialogue and expository text, it is the clear illustrations befitting the early-twentieth-century setting that drive the story forward. What makes this adaptation stand out is the comprehensive research Airriess has done to tell an accurate account of events. Though unnecessary to appreciate the work, her annotations explain many of her artistic decisions and go into further detail about the various events for those who are interested. Teens and adults alike will enjoy this true swashbuckling adventure. In the introduction, Airriess writes, “My ambition is to bring you an epic story from the pages of history . . . girding it with cast-iron research,” and that is exactly what she does.