Lovers of true adventure need look no further than this account of a dramatic flight to the North Pole by balloon. On 3 June 2000, David Hempleman-Adams touched down in Spitzbergen after an epic journey, one inspired by an ill-fated Swedish expedition of over a century ago. By the end of his own dramatic - and successful - record-breaking bid, Hempleman-Adams was the first man to have ever reached the Pole by his chosen means. This prompt recording of his achievement is impressive on several counts. First of all, as a journal of raw human courage, past and present. Second, as a piece of adventure writing and, lastly, as a new episode in the annals of Arctic exploration. The book covers both the previous, doomed expedition as well as the more recent triumphs, all written in impeccable accounts that are irresistible. By featuring original love letters and original photographs from the earlier expedition, as well as all the most up-to-date info available on the latest one, readers will surely throw themselves on this "Mercy".
