Mertz & Me, by Basilisk. Adventures of an Antarctic sledge-dog

by Anna Lucas

Overview

In this illustrated narrative, Basilisk, acknowledged as top sledge-dog, recounts the adventures and misadventures of Douglas Mawson’s historic Australasian Antarctic Expedition. It was a tough assignment: travelling by ship from his Arctic home, through the tropics (no place for a Greenland dog with thick fur), to unknown Antarctic regions, enduring storms at sea, facing blizzards in the windiest place on earth, then leading a team of dogs over treacherous ice fields; but Basilisk was a tough, resilient dog, who could enjoy the moment. He was proud to claim northern wolves as his ancestors; he adored the beautiful Alexandra; he smelt the salt on the ocean wind and the strange odour of penguins; and he chased those penguins at every opportunity. He observed the strange behaviour of the men, but adapted to their ways as he established his leadership and kept his pack of dogs in check. He formed a close bond with his trainer Dr Xavier Mertz, the first Swiss in Antarctica. They worked hard and had fun together, but the challenges they faced were huge – and then things got worse.

Product Details

BN ID:	2940045787147
Publisher:	Anna Lucas
Publication date:	03/23/2014
Sold by:	Smashwords
Format:	eBook
File size:	2 MB
Age Range:	5 - 13 Years

About the Author

As a researcher with an interest in the history of Antarctic science, the author developed a greater interest in the personalities who contributed so much to that history. She worked with researchers monitoring Eudyptula minor (the Little Blue Penguin), in postgraduate research administration, and as co-editor of marine publications. Inspired by a trip to Antarctica, her writing has more recently focused on its exploration and what inspired and motivated explorers. Her publications include magazine and journal articles, book reviews, essays and eBooks. She continues to be immersed in Antarctic subjects.