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A Suffragist's Guide to the Antarctic
A teen’s fight for suffrage turns into one of survival when her crew’s Antarctic expedition ship gets stuck in the ice in this historical novel told in journal entries.
November 1914.
Clara Ketterling-Dunbar is one of twenty-eight crew members of The Resolute —a ship meant for an Antarctic expedition now marooned on ice one hundred miles from the shore of the continent. An eighteen-year-old American, Clara has told the crew she’s a twenty-one-year-old Canadian. Since the war broke out, sentiment toward Americans has not been the most favorable, and Clara will be underestimated enough simply for being a woman without also giving away just how young she is. Two members of the crew know her nationality, but no one knows the truth of her activities in England before The Resolute set sail.
She and her suffragist sisters in the Women’s Social & Political Union were waging war of a different kind in London. They taught Clara to fight. And now, even marooned on the ice, she won’t stop fighting for women’s rights…or for survival. In the wilderness of Antarctica, Clara is determined to demonstrate what a woman is truly capable of—if the crew will let her.
November 1914.
Clara Ketterling-Dunbar is one of twenty-eight crew members of The Resolute —a ship meant for an Antarctic expedition now marooned on ice one hundred miles from the shore of the continent. An eighteen-year-old American, Clara has told the crew she’s a twenty-one-year-old Canadian. Since the war broke out, sentiment toward Americans has not been the most favorable, and Clara will be underestimated enough simply for being a woman without also giving away just how young she is. Two members of the crew know her nationality, but no one knows the truth of her activities in England before The Resolute set sail.
She and her suffragist sisters in the Women’s Social & Political Union were waging war of a different kind in London. They taught Clara to fight. And now, even marooned on the ice, she won’t stop fighting for women’s rights…or for survival. In the wilderness of Antarctica, Clara is determined to demonstrate what a woman is truly capable of—if the crew will let her.
336 pages, Hardcover
First published February 13, 2024
14 people are currently reading
801 people want to read
About the author
Yi Shun Lai
16 books87 followersYi Shun Lai (say "yeeshun" for her first name) is the author of the forthcoming young adult historical novel A Suffragist's Guide to the Antarctic (Atheneum Books, Spring 2024). Her prior books are PIN UPS, a memoir (Homebound Publications, 2020) and the novel NOT A SELF-HELP BOOK: THE MISADVENTURES OF MARTY WU (Shade Mountain Press, May 2016).
She is a columnist at The Writer magazine.
She teaches in the MFA program at Bay Path University.
Visit her on Twitter or on the web.
She is a columnist at The Writer magazine.
She teaches in the MFA program at Bay Path University.
Visit her on Twitter or on the web.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
April 19, 2024
Loosely based on the story of the Endurance and Edward Shackleton.
I love survival stories, but I’m unsure of the exact audience for this one. The writing style and general simplicity of the plot feel lower YA to me, but the on-page attempted sexual assault does not. Also, I have quibbles with the ending.
Thank you to Simon Teen for providing a review copy.
I love survival stories, but I’m unsure of the exact audience for this one. The writing style and general simplicity of the plot feel lower YA to me, but the on-page attempted sexual assault does not. Also, I have quibbles with the ending.
Thank you to Simon Teen for providing a review copy.
February 11, 2024
3.5*
Clara is a young suffragette who decides to apply to an Antarctic mission to prove herself, to prove women in general. Only, whoopsie, the expedition does not go as planned, and Clara finds herself stuck on the literal ice with a bunch of men- some of whom are none too keen to share their mission with a woman. I really enjoyed the history behind this, and Clara's experiences as a suffragette, both home and abroad.
It was certainly interesting to read about Clara's experience, which is told through her journal entries. As such, we spend a lot of time in Clara's head, which of course is a bit limiting. Still, we also get to know her innermost thoughts, which is a plus. I will say that one thing that I really did not love was the ending. I wanted more, and also, I felt like her decisions didn't totally make sense for what we knew about her thus far. Plus you know how I feel about openness, which is probably more a personal preference, but alas.
So to sum up, yay for the history and survival adventure and the commentary on women's struggles (and how they are very, very ongoing). Points off for the meh ending, and the fact that I would have probably preferred to be a little more "in" the adventure with Clara, rather than read her thoughts about it afterward.
Bottom Line: Loved the history and survival, would have also loved a bit stronger ending.
You can find the full review and all the fancy and/or randomness that accompanies it at It Starts at Midnight
Clara is a young suffragette who decides to apply to an Antarctic mission to prove herself, to prove women in general. Only, whoopsie, the expedition does not go as planned, and Clara finds herself stuck on the literal ice with a bunch of men- some of whom are none too keen to share their mission with a woman. I really enjoyed the history behind this, and Clara's experiences as a suffragette, both home and abroad.
It was certainly interesting to read about Clara's experience, which is told through her journal entries. As such, we spend a lot of time in Clara's head, which of course is a bit limiting. Still, we also get to know her innermost thoughts, which is a plus. I will say that one thing that I really did not love was the ending. I wanted more, and also, I felt like her decisions didn't totally make sense for what we knew about her thus far. Plus you know how I feel about openness, which is probably more a personal preference, but alas.
So to sum up, yay for the history and survival adventure and the commentary on women's struggles (and how they are very, very ongoing). Points off for the meh ending, and the fact that I would have probably preferred to be a little more "in" the adventure with Clara, rather than read her thoughts about it afterward.
Bottom Line: Loved the history and survival, would have also loved a bit stronger ending.
You can find the full review and all the fancy and/or randomness that accompanies it at It Starts at Midnight
January 29, 2024
Thank you NetGalley for an ACR to review.
A great YA debut from Lai.
1914 Antartica- not where you might envision and young suffragette. Lai weaves a fictional tale of a young woman, Clara, on an exploration crew of all men based on diaries of an actual voyage (thought the real one was all male). While facing adversities of the Antarctic, Clara also faces and reflects on the issues of fighting for women's rights.
Great for those who love historical fiction, strong female characters, strong setting, feminist lit.
Loved the Author's Note at the end about the research done.
A great YA debut from Lai.
1914 Antartica- not where you might envision and young suffragette. Lai weaves a fictional tale of a young woman, Clara, on an exploration crew of all men based on diaries of an actual voyage (thought the real one was all male). While facing adversities of the Antarctic, Clara also faces and reflects on the issues of fighting for women's rights.
Great for those who love historical fiction, strong female characters, strong setting, feminist lit.
Loved the Author's Note at the end about the research done.
February 5, 2024
Wow!! A Suffragist's Guide to the Antarctic is exactly what the title says it is. This book is about a girl, Clara Ketterling-Dunbar, and how she joined an expedition of men to cross the Antarctic on foot. When tragedy strikes, the men and Clara have to band together in order to survive the harsh wilderness of Antarctica.
I want to thank Simon & Schuster for giving me this arc in return for an honest review and I can say with confidence that this is a winner! I'm surprised that this is a debut novel, due to the lack of many of the problems that debut novels tend to have.
This book was written in the format of diary entries and we really got to see in Clara's head how she felt about various events that were happening around her and the crew. Clara was also heavily involved in the suffragette movement in the US and we got to see a lot of flashbacks to that time period as well.
If the book look at all interesting to you, I suggest giving it a go!! The book was fairly fast-paced and I found myself unable to put the book down at several points because I was dying to know what happened to Clara and the crew. Happy Reading!!
TW: attempted sexual assault, violence, sexism, animal killing
I want to thank Simon & Schuster for giving me this arc in return for an honest review and I can say with confidence that this is a winner! I'm surprised that this is a debut novel, due to the lack of many of the problems that debut novels tend to have.
This book was written in the format of diary entries and we really got to see in Clara's head how she felt about various events that were happening around her and the crew. Clara was also heavily involved in the suffragette movement in the US and we got to see a lot of flashbacks to that time period as well.
If the book look at all interesting to you, I suggest giving it a go!! The book was fairly fast-paced and I found myself unable to put the book down at several points because I was dying to know what happened to Clara and the crew. Happy Reading!!
TW: attempted sexual assault, violence, sexism, animal killing
April 15, 2024
Clara Ketterling- Dunbar is a suffragist, who has been in Washington D.C. at protests with Alice Paul and in London, but when the world war starts and Mrs. Pankhurst says to the suffragists that they need to support the country and do war work, instead of campaign for rights that should be theirs. Disgusted, Clara signs aboard a ship going to Antarctic the next day. Clara and her shipmates learn a lot about what she can accomplish. I quite liked this. Recommended by Children’s/ Teens’ Librarian Courtney, so BRRHC #9. Borrowed from TCL.
February 24, 2024
Antarctic Adventure
I first “met” Yi Shun when she was a guest on my podcast. She was a great storyteller and a wonderful guest. When I picked up this novel, I knew I was in for something special, and I wasn’t disappointed having the book be informed of a journal allows us to see and feel what our narrator is feeling and seeing. You can certainly read this as just an adventure novel and it is a great one. It also is a wonderful reminder of how far we have come as a society and how we still need to go. How can it be only hundred years ago people didn’t want to give women the vote? And how being the only woman in an expedition, you still need to worry about protecting yourself from men who wish to do you harm. This is an amazing book from a wonderful writer.
I first “met” Yi Shun when she was a guest on my podcast. She was a great storyteller and a wonderful guest. When I picked up this novel, I knew I was in for something special, and I wasn’t disappointed having the book be informed of a journal allows us to see and feel what our narrator is feeling and seeing. You can certainly read this as just an adventure novel and it is a great one. It also is a wonderful reminder of how far we have come as a society and how we still need to go. How can it be only hundred years ago people didn’t want to give women the vote? And how being the only woman in an expedition, you still need to worry about protecting yourself from men who wish to do you harm. This is an amazing book from a wonderful writer.
May 29, 2024
Wow, what a book. I don’t know what I was expecting, but not one that grabbed hold of me so very tightly.
I realize that this is a YA novel, but it’s definitely for the upper ranges of young adult. There is a sexual assault that is described, and both Clara and the crew at times drop quite a few F-bombs. However, the swearing is definitely used for a purpose.
Lai has written a very gripping novel that recounts Shackleton’s experience of his Antarctic trip on the Endurance. She even mentions in passing what is known as the Lost Men, the part of the expedition that landed in the Ross Sea and laid supply depots up to the pole as part of Shackleton’s cross-Antarctic trek. However, while it is true that Shackleton rescued all of the men on his portion of the expedition, yet again there is no mention of the three men who died on the Ross Sea party. I also have a slight quibble for the author in choosing the Resolute as the ship that carried Clara and the rest of the expedition to the southern continent. While possible that another ship carried that name, the HMS Resolute had been long retired by 1914 and made into desks, one of which resides in the Oval Office.
I identified so much with Clara and her frustrating with not being seen as a full person by the other men in her crew, simply by virtue of being a woman. One hundred and ten years later, many men don’t see women as their equals; I can only see the labeling of abortion drugs as controlled substances as depriving women of the right to make decisions for their own bodies.
I am rather surprised I read this entire book in a day, and knowing what I know of Shackleton’s expedition affected my enjoyment of this book not at all. I highly recommend this for anyone who enjoys sad boat, as this will definitely scratch that itch.
I realize that this is a YA novel, but it’s definitely for the upper ranges of young adult. There is a sexual assault that is described, and both Clara and the crew at times drop quite a few F-bombs. However, the swearing is definitely used for a purpose.
Lai has written a very gripping novel that recounts Shackleton’s experience of his Antarctic trip on the Endurance. She even mentions in passing what is known as the Lost Men, the part of the expedition that landed in the Ross Sea and laid supply depots up to the pole as part of Shackleton’s cross-Antarctic trek. However, while it is true that Shackleton rescued all of the men on his portion of the expedition, yet again there is no mention of the three men who died on the Ross Sea party. I also have a slight quibble for the author in choosing the Resolute as the ship that carried Clara and the rest of the expedition to the southern continent. While possible that another ship carried that name, the HMS Resolute had been long retired by 1914 and made into desks, one of which resides in the Oval Office.
I identified so much with Clara and her frustrating with not being seen as a full person by the other men in her crew, simply by virtue of being a woman. One hundred and ten years later, many men don’t see women as their equals; I can only see the labeling of abortion drugs as controlled substances as depriving women of the right to make decisions for their own bodies.
I am rather surprised I read this entire book in a day, and knowing what I know of Shackleton’s expedition affected my enjoyment of this book not at all. I highly recommend this for anyone who enjoys sad boat, as this will definitely scratch that itch.
March 30, 2025
Told through journal entries of a young woman who has been active in the suffrage movements in the US and England and is accepted to be the only female on an Antarctic expedition. The story takes place in 1914. The crew members are interesting characters with various and evolving takes on Clara's participation. Clara is tough and well trained in survival by her mother, an outdoorswoman. This is a survival story as well as a historical look at the suffrage movement and Antarctic expeditions. Clara has also been trained in self defense via the suffrage movement which plays a part when one of the expedition crew members decides to (try to) assault her. That scene and its outcome is horrific, satisfying, and nuanced at the same time.
February 22, 2024
1.5/5
I was excited at first to read this book because of the adventure and to read about the panic, and how the main character reacted to the situation. It's kind of hard for me to put into words. The story, while having the chapters be diary entries, read with almost no emotion. I wish it would have been in first person, with the character living in the moment instead of getting the information by her recounting what happened from her memory
I was excited at first to read this book because of the adventure and to read about the panic, and how the main character reacted to the situation. It's kind of hard for me to put into words. The story, while having the chapters be diary entries, read with almost no emotion. I wish it would have been in first person, with the character living in the moment instead of getting the information by her recounting what happened from her memory
March 13, 2024
I hate being a jerk on here, but seriously...how did this get published?! This was really really rough get through. I thought it might be a little hint of "Dear America" but grown up, but that was not it at all.
Clara was absolutely insufferable. She was obnoxious, so annoying, such a jerk to other women and only thought that what SHE wanted was right, she up and went to Antarctica because she didn't agree with other women's view of how to change the world and get the right to vote and how to handle life during, ya know, a world war. She rags on all the men in her expedition but at the end we are supposed to believe that she loved them all?? Her sexual assault was handled so, so poorly (not just by the men in her expedition but by the writer). I really should have hurled this book into the sun this when all the dogs were killed FOR NO REASON but I wanted to say I stuck it out (look at me, being stubborn Clara) and that was a big, big mistake. The ending was as horrible as I expected it to be.
Do yourself a favor and do not read this. If you recommend this to a teen, please outline which specific teen you think would like this because I cannot fathom one not laughing me into oblivion for even suggesting this.
Clara was absolutely insufferable. She was obnoxious, so annoying, such a jerk to other women and only thought that what SHE wanted was right, she up and went to Antarctica because she didn't agree with other women's view of how to change the world and get the right to vote and how to handle life during, ya know, a world war. She rags on all the men in her expedition but at the end we are supposed to believe that she loved them all?? Her sexual assault was handled so, so poorly (not just by the men in her expedition but by the writer). I really should have hurled this book into the sun this when all the dogs were killed FOR NO REASON but I wanted to say I stuck it out (look at me, being stubborn Clara) and that was a big, big mistake. The ending was as horrible as I expected it to be.
Do yourself a favor and do not read this. If you recommend this to a teen, please outline which specific teen you think would like this because I cannot fathom one not laughing me into oblivion for even suggesting this.
February 10, 2024
In A Suffragist’s Guide to the Antarctic, author Yi Shun Lai has woven together the women’s suffrage movement and the historic expeditions to Antarctica through a protagonist with the strength, resilience, and courage that YA readers need in a hero.
Clara has a had a full life before she is chosen to join the expedition to the Antarctic with twenty-seven others, all of whom are men. She has marched for women’s suffrage, joined the British suffragists under Emmeline Pankhurst, and watched her own mother navigate a world where men still hold the power, politically, financially, and domestically. When the expedition is iced in and must survive on an ice floe, she shows her grit and courage, and when one sailor assaults her, she shows her strength and her self-possession, knowing what is right and standing for it,, even when her male mates are confused and thrown by her defense of herself.
When given the opportunity to wait to be rescued or to join a perilous lifeboat trip to reach help, she joins the trip and shows her leadership when sickness and pain cripple many of the crew., but when she is given the chance to return to England or to go to rescue the crew left waiting for help, she faces her biggest struggle and must decide what her mission truly is.
Clara is a protagonist all readers will admire, and her actions and thoughts are realistic, candid, and brave. At times, she uses strong language which might deter some teachers or librarians from adding this to a collection, but the language is never gratuitous and underscores the severity of the situations and the struggle Clara faces. At one point, Clara even comments on her own profanity, realizing it provides an outlet for her anger and fear. While the language is strong, YA readers will see it for what it is, a venting of extreme feelings in an environment that offers few other outlets.
This novel would be an excellent addition to a study of the women’s suffrage movement or the polar expeditions. What this novel does best is present these historic events through the eyes of a character who shows the ability to study herself, grow, and see where she can join the fight to make her world a better place.
Clara has a had a full life before she is chosen to join the expedition to the Antarctic with twenty-seven others, all of whom are men. She has marched for women’s suffrage, joined the British suffragists under Emmeline Pankhurst, and watched her own mother navigate a world where men still hold the power, politically, financially, and domestically. When the expedition is iced in and must survive on an ice floe, she shows her grit and courage, and when one sailor assaults her, she shows her strength and her self-possession, knowing what is right and standing for it,, even when her male mates are confused and thrown by her defense of herself.
When given the opportunity to wait to be rescued or to join a perilous lifeboat trip to reach help, she joins the trip and shows her leadership when sickness and pain cripple many of the crew., but when she is given the chance to return to England or to go to rescue the crew left waiting for help, she faces her biggest struggle and must decide what her mission truly is.
Clara is a protagonist all readers will admire, and her actions and thoughts are realistic, candid, and brave. At times, she uses strong language which might deter some teachers or librarians from adding this to a collection, but the language is never gratuitous and underscores the severity of the situations and the struggle Clara faces. At one point, Clara even comments on her own profanity, realizing it provides an outlet for her anger and fear. While the language is strong, YA readers will see it for what it is, a venting of extreme feelings in an environment that offers few other outlets.
This novel would be an excellent addition to a study of the women’s suffrage movement or the polar expeditions. What this novel does best is present these historic events through the eyes of a character who shows the ability to study herself, grow, and see where she can join the fight to make her world a better place.
February 14, 2024
Thank you Netgalley and Atheneum Books for Young Readers for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
"A Suffragist's Guide to the Antarctic" by Yi Shun Lai is a unique blend of historical fiction and survival adventure. I have never read a book before that weaves together themes of women's suffrage and Antarctic exploration; I was extremely interested in reading this book due to this unique combination of themes even though I’m not a big fan of historical fiction. The survival aspect in Antarctica is what really drew me in, but I ended up really enjoying the historical aspects.
The story follows Clara Ketterling-Dunbar, a young suffragette who defies societal norms by joining an Antarctic expedition dominated by men. When tragedy strikes, Clara and her companions must rely on each other to survive the harsh Antarctic wilderness. The book unfolds through Clara's diary entries, providing you with intimate insight into her thoughts and experiences. I really enjoyed reading the unfiltered thoughts of Clara through the diary entries! I thought this was a unique way to develop the story that is already so unique. Clara's involvement in the suffragette movement adds depth to her character, highlighting her strength and courage in the face of adversity. As she navigates the challenges of both the expedition and the fight for women's rights, Clara is definitely a heroine readers I admire. I was rooting for her throughout the entire book, and I was extremely invested in her story and survival in the tundra.
Because the book is centered around Clara’s diary entries, the storytelling is a bit limited in that way; we don’t really get to see other characters’ perspectives or thoughts. The ending also left me a bit unsatisfied. Despite this, I really enjoyed the fast-paced plot, engaging writing, and the portrayal of historical events. I couldn’t put the book down!
Overall, "A Suffragist's Guide to the Antarctic" offers a thought-provoking exploration of resilience and the fight for equality. It is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and those interested in stories of courage and survival.
"A Suffragist's Guide to the Antarctic" by Yi Shun Lai is a unique blend of historical fiction and survival adventure. I have never read a book before that weaves together themes of women's suffrage and Antarctic exploration; I was extremely interested in reading this book due to this unique combination of themes even though I’m not a big fan of historical fiction. The survival aspect in Antarctica is what really drew me in, but I ended up really enjoying the historical aspects.
The story follows Clara Ketterling-Dunbar, a young suffragette who defies societal norms by joining an Antarctic expedition dominated by men. When tragedy strikes, Clara and her companions must rely on each other to survive the harsh Antarctic wilderness. The book unfolds through Clara's diary entries, providing you with intimate insight into her thoughts and experiences. I really enjoyed reading the unfiltered thoughts of Clara through the diary entries! I thought this was a unique way to develop the story that is already so unique. Clara's involvement in the suffragette movement adds depth to her character, highlighting her strength and courage in the face of adversity. As she navigates the challenges of both the expedition and the fight for women's rights, Clara is definitely a heroine readers I admire. I was rooting for her throughout the entire book, and I was extremely invested in her story and survival in the tundra.
Because the book is centered around Clara’s diary entries, the storytelling is a bit limited in that way; we don’t really get to see other characters’ perspectives or thoughts. The ending also left me a bit unsatisfied. Despite this, I really enjoyed the fast-paced plot, engaging writing, and the portrayal of historical events. I couldn’t put the book down!
Overall, "A Suffragist's Guide to the Antarctic" offers a thought-provoking exploration of resilience and the fight for equality. It is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and those interested in stories of courage and survival.
April 11, 2024
I had the hardest time with this book. I don't know who the target audience is for the book.
The story is tied pretty close to the Shackleton expedition, so it's easy to see where the author got their inspiration. And they referenced a lot feminist points of history that I had to go learn more about. So that was cool.
But I had the hardest time the main character. It just felt like she didn't belong no matter what group she was with. She was angry with everyone around her. She had a disliked men so much that she couldn't see when the crew where trying to be helpful or help her be apart of conversation.
Like when the men are all talking about how where they'd like to take their SOs and what they'd like to do. And then they make the mistake of asking the main character if she has a guy waiting for her at home. She gets upset that she is asked if she a guy waiting for her back home and not for advice on where to take their SOs. It was a conversation about people wanting to be with their significant others and she's upset that she was asked if she had a significant other! I did like how the men asked if she was sapphic when she said that she didn't have a man.
There were a few times throughout the book where I felt like she was just alienating everyone that was trying to be a friend to her. It was like she was going out of her way to take the moral high road with everyone around her. The men asked her about her life and she spent time talking about the terrible lives that women lead.
She goes on about how the right to vote to the point where other women tell her "there is a war going on. The right to vote doesn't help if there is not world to vote in".
She couldn't connect to with people of a "poor" background because she couldn't connect with them due to her own higher family station. It was just hard to deal with.
The story is tied pretty close to the Shackleton expedition, so it's easy to see where the author got their inspiration. And they referenced a lot feminist points of history that I had to go learn more about. So that was cool.
But I had the hardest time the main character. It just felt like she didn't belong no matter what group she was with. She was angry with everyone around her. She had a disliked men so much that she couldn't see when the crew where trying to be helpful or help her be apart of conversation.
Like when the men are all talking about how where they'd like to take their SOs and what they'd like to do. And then they make the mistake of asking the main character if she has a guy waiting for her at home. She gets upset that she is asked if she a guy waiting for her back home and not for advice on where to take their SOs. It was a conversation about people wanting to be with their significant others and she's upset that she was asked if she had a significant other! I did like how the men asked if she was sapphic when she said that she didn't have a man.
There were a few times throughout the book where I felt like she was just alienating everyone that was trying to be a friend to her. It was like she was going out of her way to take the moral high road with everyone around her. The men asked her about her life and she spent time talking about the terrible lives that women lead.
She goes on about how the right to vote to the point where other women tell her "there is a war going on. The right to vote doesn't help if there is not world to vote in".
She couldn't connect to with people of a "poor" background because she couldn't connect with them due to her own higher family station. It was just hard to deal with.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 29, 2024
This is a really interesting YA novel, written in the form of a journal our main character explores and tells what it is like to be the lone female on a trek to the Antarctic in the early 1900's. Clara is a teen from Pennsylvania who was raised by an unconventional mother and a very conventional father.
She's heavily involved in the suffragist movement, with the support of her mother. In joining the daring expedition, she hopes to prove to the men, and the world that she is every bit their equal.
Clara fumes and fusses over being assigned "womanly" tasks like haircuts or cooking. All the while fending off disrespectful attitudes from the crew. As the crew become stranded in the Antarctic,her journey becomes one of survival, rather than just proving herself capable.
While this is listed for Grade 10-12... it really felt like it was for a younger audience I would expand that down to about age 13-16, depending on the reader. As an adult reader, I definitely found myself identifying with Clara's passion and spirit AND her Mother's decidedly more tempered support, and her Mother's desire for quiet life. I also identified strongly with Clara's inability to understand her Mother's point of view.
Overall, Good solid writing, interesting historical elements, and good timing with the current interest rising in women's rights. I knocked this down one star because for me, it didn't hold my interest that well- I had some moments where I was feeling uninterested and realized that 15 yr old me would have been highly interested, and thus this will likely hit the mark for the intended audience, but to get 5 stars from me I think it should be able to hold my attention, especially a book involving Antarctic adventure, strong female characters, and dogs... there are dogs!
And I mean, the Cover. the Cover!!!! I am such a sucker for a good cover
She's heavily involved in the suffragist movement, with the support of her mother. In joining the daring expedition, she hopes to prove to the men, and the world that she is every bit their equal.
Clara fumes and fusses over being assigned "womanly" tasks like haircuts or cooking. All the while fending off disrespectful attitudes from the crew. As the crew become stranded in the Antarctic,her journey becomes one of survival, rather than just proving herself capable.
While this is listed for Grade 10-12... it really felt like it was for a younger audience I would expand that down to about age 13-16, depending on the reader. As an adult reader, I definitely found myself identifying with Clara's passion and spirit AND her Mother's decidedly more tempered support, and her Mother's desire for quiet life. I also identified strongly with Clara's inability to understand her Mother's point of view.
Overall, Good solid writing, interesting historical elements, and good timing with the current interest rising in women's rights. I knocked this down one star because for me, it didn't hold my interest that well- I had some moments where I was feeling uninterested and realized that 15 yr old me would have been highly interested, and thus this will likely hit the mark for the intended audience, but to get 5 stars from me I think it should be able to hold my attention, especially a book involving Antarctic adventure, strong female characters, and dogs... there are dogs!
And I mean, the Cover. the Cover!!!! I am such a sucker for a good cover
July 5, 2024
It's November 1914. Eighteen-year-old Clara Ketterling-Dunbar has fought alongside her suffragette sisters, but nothing prepares her for exploring the Antarctic. Told in journal format, Clara describes her journey as the only woman crew member of The Resolute. Her experiences in the suffragette movement taught her to fight, but will they be enough to help her survive after the ship is stranded on ice.
What worked: Intriguing premise of a teen leaving behind the suffragist movement in 1914 in London to sign up on an exploration ship to the Antarctic. There she encounters many things which include being stranded on ice; food shortages; animosity from crew members; and harassment. It's also the story of her pushing herself to prove she's capable of doing much.
This story is told in journal format. Readers learn what is involved in an exploration of Antarctica. There are some friendships she makes. Some mock her for being part of a male crew. Through all of this, Clara shows her internal strength and courage.
The story goes back to the time Clara was part of the suffragist movement and her memories of her life with her mother. Those times when women couldn't vote and had no rights were shown. It overlaps her time on The Resolute and the Patriarchy she's up against.
Warning there are scenes of animal cruelty and also an abuse scene. I understand this is more of a survival story, but still, the animal scenes were very intense.
Courageous portrayal of an eighteen-year-old who fights to prove herself while on an exploration ship to the Antarctic.
Originial post: https://www.yabookscentral.com/a-suff...
What worked: Intriguing premise of a teen leaving behind the suffragist movement in 1914 in London to sign up on an exploration ship to the Antarctic. There she encounters many things which include being stranded on ice; food shortages; animosity from crew members; and harassment. It's also the story of her pushing herself to prove she's capable of doing much.
This story is told in journal format. Readers learn what is involved in an exploration of Antarctica. There are some friendships she makes. Some mock her for being part of a male crew. Through all of this, Clara shows her internal strength and courage.
The story goes back to the time Clara was part of the suffragist movement and her memories of her life with her mother. Those times when women couldn't vote and had no rights were shown. It overlaps her time on The Resolute and the Patriarchy she's up against.
Warning there are scenes of animal cruelty and also an abuse scene. I understand this is more of a survival story, but still, the animal scenes were very intense.
Courageous portrayal of an eighteen-year-old who fights to prove herself while on an exploration ship to the Antarctic.
Originial post: https://www.yabookscentral.com/a-suff...
March 12, 2024
Frequently, young adult (YA) novels gravitate toward exploring intense emotional themes that deeply resonate with readers in that age group. These narratives often delve into the complexities of young love or the longing for peer acceptance, accompanied by a palpable sense of urgency that demands immediate resolution. Lai, however, skillfully employs this familiar tension to craft a compelling narrative that stands out by veering away from these conventional story arcs. Introducing Clara, a character who remains indifferent to typical high school dramas such as romantic entanglements or confrontations with mean girls, Lai presents a protagonist with far greater concerns. Clara is preoccupied with pivotal issues like the fight for women's suffrage and the challenge of being the sole woman in a male-dominated team stranded in Antarctica. This narrative approach offers a refreshing take on the genre, infusing the story with a 'change the world' dynamism and urgency characteristic of YA fiction, yet through an entirely distinct perspective. I eagerly anticipate sharing this story with my daughters, confident it will provide them with a unique and inspiring reading experience.
April 16, 2024
This was a great book. Antarctica is a place, or a concept even, that has always fascinated me. I have read exactly zero fiction books about Antarctica, and was so excited to get into this one.
It's 1914, and Clara, a young woman from America, has lied about her age and her nationality to get onboard the 28 person crew headed to Antarctica. She is strong and determined, and is the only woman on this expedition. Clara has to fight for herself on the ice, something she learned from the suffragettes fighting in England for the right to vote. As she and her crew get stranded on ice 100 miles from where they were supposed to land, Clara is constantly at odds with the men on the crew, and with the forces of nature.
I loved so much about the book. The world-building made me feel like I was on the ice fighting alongside Clara. I appreciated how she stood up for herself, especially in an era when women were largely not heard or taken seriously. I admired her strength and think she is an inspiration to young girls everywhere. I also really liked the epistolary style of the novel. It felt even more real. Great book!
It's 1914, and Clara, a young woman from America, has lied about her age and her nationality to get onboard the 28 person crew headed to Antarctica. She is strong and determined, and is the only woman on this expedition. Clara has to fight for herself on the ice, something she learned from the suffragettes fighting in England for the right to vote. As she and her crew get stranded on ice 100 miles from where they were supposed to land, Clara is constantly at odds with the men on the crew, and with the forces of nature.
I loved so much about the book. The world-building made me feel like I was on the ice fighting alongside Clara. I appreciated how she stood up for herself, especially in an era when women were largely not heard or taken seriously. I admired her strength and think she is an inspiration to young girls everywhere. I also really liked the epistolary style of the novel. It felt even more real. Great book!
April 29, 2024
Written as diary entries, A Suffragist’s Guide to the Antarctic by Yi Shun Lai is historical fiction that loosely mirrors Shackelton’s real life expedition to the Antarctic in 1914. In Lai’s retelling, Clara Dunbar becomes the first woman hired on to a crew attempting to trek across the frozen continent. Initially, the juxtaposition of Clara’s struggles with the elements and with her all-male crew mates against her flashbacks to experiences with the women’s suffragist’s movements in the U.S. and England seems odd. But we soon see how lying about her age and where she is from to secure her place among the men is directly connected to Clara’s need to prove women’s abilities and worth in securing the right to vote. The book has all the elements of a good YA novel to inspire young women in particular, but it took me a bit to connect to Clara as a character. One also has to consider one’s tolerance for an author’s overuse of the word “one” in a book one is reading. A Suffragist’s Guide is quick reading, and I found it a compelling enough story. Three and a half stars rounded up.
September 29, 2023
I loved this book. It’s a YA book with two story lines: Clara is a suffragist from the US who moved to London to get involved with the movement there. When the movement is halted to support the war effort, she is frustrated and doesn’t know what to do with herself, so she impulsively signs up for an expedition to the Antarctic. The expedition is Shackleton’s with name changes and some poetic license (a woman on the expedition, for instance) but otherwise a close enough retelling. I learned a lot about the suffragette movement in the U.K. and had to supplement what the book talks about with some additional trips down internet rabbit holes. Clara is often frustrated with how she is treated by the men on the expedition; she wants to demonstrate that a woman can do anything a man can do, sometimes to the point of pigheadedness. She returns from the expedition with new insights about herself and what she wants to do with her life.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 10, 2024
I think it’s unfair for people to ding it because they don’t like the diary format. If you’re going based on old timey sea voyages then a diary format makes sense. Indeed, it is THE way that stories were captured and retold. I think the point is that Clara is 18 and thinks she’s so worldly and knows better than anyone else but she’s just coming into knowing what it means to be on her own and out of her element (amongst likeminded people) and how that impacts her worldview. 18 yr olds ARE insufferable know it alls 😂 If you invest in the story and the character, you will feel an emotional connection. There are times I was clenching my fists in anger because of some experiences she had (that I have had as well). I could also deeply relate to the desire to prove oneself when you feel like you don’t belong. I laughed at times, fumed at others. Thoroughly enjoyable!
January 4, 2025
This is a really entertaining YA historical fiction about a teen suffragette, Clara Ketterling-Dunbar, joining a crew exploring Antarctica in 1914. It's told in diary format as Clara records her experiences aboard The Resolute, which sinks, and then crossing the Antarctic with a crew of all men. She describes both her experiences as a suffragette, fighting for women's rights with Emma Pankhurst and her frustrations with the movement, like when Ida B. Wells was ostracized from a women's rights march, as well as her experiences among the crew who don't quite know what to do with a woman member. One crew member especially is lewd and a constant sore for Clara.
I quite enjoyed this, and I'm surprised to see it doesn't have more readers. It does have sexual assault, but the author handles it well. I definitely recommend this one!
I quite enjoyed this, and I'm surprised to see it doesn't have more readers. It does have sexual assault, but the author handles it well. I definitely recommend this one!
March 15, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley for an eARC and to the author, Yi Shun Lai, for a finished signed copy of this book.
Clara is the sole woman on a treacherous journey to the Antarctic in 1914. In this epistolary novel, Clara recounts her adventures and many struggles through the uncontrollable dangers of the frozen tundra. Educational, wittingly sarcastic, and deeply inspirational, Clara juxtaposes her journey with that of the women's march towards suffrage.
As a child, I absolutely devoured historical fiction centering around young women. It's been a good, long while since that passion has been kindled. Clara's adventures delighted me with her biting wit, and her eloquenced roused in me a hope towards continuing the journey towards women's equality.
Clara is the sole woman on a treacherous journey to the Antarctic in 1914. In this epistolary novel, Clara recounts her adventures and many struggles through the uncontrollable dangers of the frozen tundra. Educational, wittingly sarcastic, and deeply inspirational, Clara juxtaposes her journey with that of the women's march towards suffrage.
As a child, I absolutely devoured historical fiction centering around young women. It's been a good, long while since that passion has been kindled. Clara's adventures delighted me with her biting wit, and her eloquenced roused in me a hope towards continuing the journey towards women's equality.
May 9, 2024
Clara, an 18-year-old suffragist with a fiery spirit, sets out on an unprecedented Antarctic expedition in 1914 on The Resolute, where she's the only woman among 28 men. Through her journal entries, she documents her struggle to earn respect from her male counterparts, but her challenges get more severe when the ship becomes trapped in ice, and an attempted rape takes place. Although the story presents a message of female empowerment, the journal format creates distance between the readers and the characters. Although Clara claims to have camaraderie with her shipmates, their bond feels underdeveloped. The resolution feels rushed, and it contradicts Clara's character. I had a difficult time believing in the portrayal of her parents' characters.
May 19, 2024
Growing up, two of my favorite books were Julie of the Wolves and The Witch of Blackbird Pond. Reading this reminded me so strongly of how I felt reading and re-reading those when I was very young. A strong female protagonist who stands up against social strictures, survives what nature throws at her, has a powerful sense of self, and can push through adverse situations - these are fantastic elements in YA novels and I'm so glad that, going forward, young readers will have this book to help guide how they make sense of the world. Richly researched, vivid and engaging, steeped in history, filled to the brim with details about the Antarctic and the specifics of early European exploration, A Suffragist's Guide is an excellent read.
November 1, 2024
This was very much a modern, YA version of a Dear America book, with the addition of sexual assault. I loved Dear America books growing up, but for me, the diary style entries didn't work well for this story. We were told and told and told about the crewmates Clara was close with, but honestly, they were all the same character other than one. The adventure side of the story also felt a little flat because of the diary entries. I would have loved to hear more about the actual expedition, and not jsut about how Clara felt about the suffragist movement, drinking a lot of warm water instead of tea, and hunting.
I liked this one, and I'm not sad I read it. But I do think there was *a lot* of room for improvement.
I liked this one, and I'm not sad I read it. But I do think there was *a lot* of room for improvement.
March 3, 2024
This took an exciting adventure story and took all the excitement, emotion, and suspense out of it.
I think the author had a good message buried in there about women’s rights and being able to rely on others. But choosing to format it as journal entries took a lot out of the story.
By the end Clara is talking about how she was so close to these men and they’re her friends but we never saw any evidence of that. Her almost assault is resolved within pages. The resolution is so quick and her choice does not match with the rest of her motivations.
Ultimately a letdown.
I think the author had a good message buried in there about women’s rights and being able to rely on others. But choosing to format it as journal entries took a lot out of the story.
By the end Clara is talking about how she was so close to these men and they’re her friends but we never saw any evidence of that. Her almost assault is resolved within pages. The resolution is so quick and her choice does not match with the rest of her motivations.
Ultimately a letdown.
September 14, 2023
A sweeping historical epic written in flawless period voice, this story is the journal of an extraordinary young woman driven not only to break the barriers of her time and station, but to pave the way for generations of girls to come. Both a searing tale of survival set against the harshest of climates and a moving voyage of perseverance and courage. Ye Shun Lai’s accomplished prose moved me to tears.
February 10, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC of this novel. 3.5/5 stars
I liked the concept and how it's not an usual historical fiction novel, but so much of it just felt meh. It is written in diary format, and that itself took a while to get into and understand. For some reason, I wanted more about, you know, suffrage, but it really was mostly the MC thinking about how she left the movement behind to go on this journey and is now dealing with patriarchy all the way in the Antarctic.
I liked the concept and how it's not an usual historical fiction novel, but so much of it just felt meh. It is written in diary format, and that itself took a while to get into and understand. For some reason, I wanted more about, you know, suffrage, but it really was mostly the MC thinking about how she left the movement behind to go on this journey and is now dealing with patriarchy all the way in the Antarctic.
March 6, 2024
This book answers the question “what if” a determined young woman joined the crew of a ship similar to The Endurance. Clara takes you on her adventures through diary entries detailing every part of seafaring life in 1914 and surviving the most extreme Arctic conditions with an extraordinary crew. At times heartbreaking, joyful, funny, and infuriating, you will be rooting for Clara and her friends. Well researched, it will give you a glimpse into a life full of hope and grit despite the most dire circumstances, whether they are environmental or political!
February 22, 2024
What if a woman had been on the Shackleton expedition that was marooned on the ice of the Antarctic during WWI? Yi Shun Lai imagines that scenario with an 18 year old American suffragette, Clara (pretending to be a 21 year old Canadian since the Americans weren't popular with the British due to their lack of participation in the war). The book begins just after the ship has been crushed by the ice. Much of the crew like and respect Clara but there's one who constantly shifts blame and looks for opportunities to belittle Clara. The story is told in diary entries. This book was so much fun and the audio was terrific.
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