Mawson in Antarctica: to the ends of the Earth – Joanna Grochowicz

July 2024

ISBN:9781761180590

Publisher:A&U Children’s

Imprint:A & U Children

RRP: $19.99

This is another in a fantastic series by this author, polar historian Joanna Grochowicz, and with the news about the recovery of Shackleton’s lost last ship in this past week turning the spotlight once again to those redoubtable adventurers of earlier times, a very timely release. The earlier books are all equally sensational and although I didn’t review them, I have read them all and can vouch for that [if I recall I bought them for my library of that moment, looking for more engaging narrative non-fiction].

Readers will know Mawson’s visage even if they don’t see too many $100 notes IRL but will also, no doubt, recognise his name given it is repeated in street signs, suburbs and so on, throughout the land. Mawson’s determination to explore, charter and claim for Australia the vast tract of unknown Antarctica is the very stuff of legends and much has been written about him over the years, including the terrific Meet…Douglas Mawson but there is not so much for those MG readers who thirst for true heroic adventures.

This and its companions of the series fit the bill perfectly. I enjoyed every page of this one. Nerdy child me, who was always reading big brother’s non-fiction (finally my lovely mum caught on that I enjoyed NF as much as fiction so her book-buying for me reflected that!} especially loved the books that focussed on people and places and the polar explorers were included in that. [I was so chuffed when I got to play the role of heroic Lawrence Oates in our class play – “I am just going outside and I may be some time.”]

While there were facts about Mawon with which I was familiar, Grochowicz’ skill in constructing a narrative around these, and imparting a real sense of being ‘on the spot’ makes for a truly immersive experience. Through her words we get to know each of these men who were willing to make sacrifices and endure extreme hardships to advance scientific knowledge and Australia’s place on a world stage. Mawson’s incredible tale of survival against all odds is an inspiration and a testament to his indomitable human spirit that ensured a legacy that is remembered with pride.

Expand on your HASS and Science classroom curriculum, and certainly include in biographies and investigating significant Australians, with this series. I would highly recommend it to your readers from Year 4 upwards. A huge 5 🐧🐧🐧🐧🐧 rating for this one.