Antarctic Tears: Determination, adversity, and the pursuit of a dream at the bottom of the world

by Aaron Linsdau

A lone man marches across the wastelands of Antarctica, eating two sticks of butter a day to survive.Aaron Linsdau planned an extraordinary feat. He wanted to become the first American to boldly ski to the South Pole and back alone. Others have nearly died trying this monumental trek.Diseases took over his body. Hallucinations filled his vision. Will he reach the South Pole before he goes mad from the solitude of being alone for three months?

This true-life journey spans a forbidding continent. It is always sub-zero on the Antarctic plateau. He faced headwinds and storms every day. Can he reach his goal before he freezes his face, fingers, and toes off?

The treacherous continent conspired to kill him in every way imaginable.This is an adventure of the heart, mind, and spirit. What makes an otherwise sane person abandon everything for something so reckless and risky?

Will Aaron have the wits, courage, and resourcefulness to struggle alone for three months to achieve his dream?

Download your copy of this daring survival story today.#1 Bestseller on Amazon.com (June 2015 in Skiing)Fans of Jon Krakauer, Cheryl Strayed, and Alfred Lansing will love this book.Download Antarctic Tears for an honest, exciting true-life adventure on ice.

Genres: Nonfiction, Biography, Adventure, Thriller, Amazon, Memoir, Ebooks

342 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 6, 2014

Reviews

[Aaron Linsdau · Rating 5 out of 5]

The odyssey to complete the book was actually more challenging than the expedition itself. There were no distractions in Antarctica. While writing a book, there were 100's of distractions.
I loved Antarctica and I hope you enjoy my retelling of the experience!

[♏ Gina☽ · Rating 5 out of 5]

All I can say after reading this book is that Aaron Linsdau is much braver than I could ever hope to be. Anyone who sets a goal of being the first person to solo ski from the edge of Antarctica to the South Pole and back again, is either crazy or determined. Aaron would be the first to admit he's probably both.

The book chronicles his years of preparation for this unbelievably harrowing and dangerous trip, what it took to get it underway, and what it took to succeed. Along the way, he must save himself a few times from medical problems, malfunctioning equipment, and even hallucinations in the vast white wilderness. And all of this time he was completely alone.

Aaron left the world of engineering to pursue his dream. Highly intelligent and driven, he would take no less than complete success. He doesn't sugar coat some of the things he went through, like an intestinal problem which was most uncomfortable to say the least, to downright dangerous as he had to expose himself to cold and winds that would cause frostbite in mere seconds.

I congratulate him on his success and for sharing his story so eloquently.

[Chris Steeden · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow. Just, Wow.

Aaron Linsdau attempted to ski from the geographic coast of Antarctica to the South Pole (700 miles) and back (another 700 miles). He was doing this solo and unsupported. Can you imagine? The biggest piece of wilderness on the planet. Deemed a desert as there is so little air moisture. There is plenty of wind though.

He goes into some of his background and how he got into the outdoors life. From trekking in the Sierras to climbing of Mount Whitney, hiking in Yellowstone to postholing in Greenland, dragging a tyre filled with rocks around the streets near his home bundled together with a bit of Antarctic expedition history.

The actual solo expedition is detailed in diary format. The beginning is painfully slow (not the diary but Aaron’s journey) and there is some equipment failure, a cough / lung infection and extreme weather conditions to contend with. It is amazing that Aaron carried-on. He must have had some serious self-belief that things would turn out good to carry-on. Just check out one of his photos on the 6ft brick wall of snow he has to build every night to protect his tent. I don’t know if you’re like me but when I go on holiday somewhere hot it becomes tiresome putting on suntan lotion in the day and topping up throughout. Just imagine taking 1.5 hours in the morning to prepare and then 9 hours of skiing with sleds and then having to make up camp. Day after day after day. On your own and in Antarctic conditions. That must take some mental and physical strength.

At times, you can feel his desperation coming through the words and the immense size of Antarctica and the cold and the mighty wind. You cheer him on. Does he succeed? No spoilers from me but it is a Herculean effort that starts at Hercules Inlet.

OK, maybe the book could have done with some tighter editing here and there but don’t let that put you off. If you are into travel writing and extreme travel then this is for you.

[Russell King · Rating 4 out of 5]

My first thought of this book after I began reading it was that it was going to a version of Wild where an unprepared and unqualified person undertakes an adventure that they shouldn’t. And it was similar in that the author grew substantially in his understanding and appreciation of what he wanted from life by undergoing the adventure. The book was dissimilar is that the author ultimately spent spent significant time and effort in preparing and executing his trip and successfully achieved his primary goal of trekking to the South Pole. Given that I have done a limited amount of backpacking, I especially appreciated his detailing the trials and tribulations he encountered and how he surmounted them. His fortitude and determination were commendable and appreciated. The book was a good story of an ordinary person overcoming extraordinary diversity.

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Review –

Another wonderful adventurous trek written by Aaron Linsdau in Antarctic Tears .

We are thrown into the story from the get go as Aaron takes us along his challenging and thrilling trek to reach the South Pole. Filled with first hand experiences that take your breath away we are diving into the unknown right along with him. Aaron keeps readers captivated with some experiences that can cause a chill to go up your spine. Keeping a steady pace Aaron describes his activities and obstacles over hundreds of miles drawing you deeper into the landscapes from afar.

Aaron travels through some of the most challenging and dangerous landscapes on earth that most of us can barely even begin to image let alone conquer. The book is jam packed with detail encounters, and chalk full of great information about the areas he’s traveling through. There are many pictures as well throughout his journey taking you in deeper beyond his words. There’s a great feel of what Aaron is going through and it’s difficult to not find yourself almost biting your nails to see what’s around the next corner.

Before he begins his 700 mile through the South Pole we are taken through Yellowstone Park during harsh winter temperatures and Greenlands tundra, all in preparation for his upcoming Antarctica where he encounters more than just treacherous paths, but personal challenges that he must overcome.

Aaron exhibits great determination and a never say quit attitude which we could all learn from . There are several times where things seem to just go wrong for him, yet he keeps pushing forwards and through trial and error- soon overcomes the obstacles of all sizes. His personal growth from start to finish is easily seen and nearly relatable, even though most of us aren’t trekking halfway around the world in freezing temps by ourselves! We can easily relate to wanting to give up, or facing unknown with questions and fear, and Aaron has taken us along with him for one of the most dramatic and challenging journey’s of them all. The lessons learned along the way are his to take on but we can very easily learn from them as well. Aaron does an amazing job putting it all into words.

A must read for a true adventurer at heart who likes some thrills of a trek and some inspiring words !

[Michele · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book I read in this giveaway. One thing is for absolute certain--you will NEVER see me traveling overland-much less solo just because I want to reach the South Pole! Originally he planned on going overland ther and then back again---but that he made it one way was short of a miracle as far as I'm concerned!! The fact that he was also sick from the beginning---uh but kept on going in temperatures that never really stabilized-at one point I thought he might be suicidal!

One thing for certain he never gave up--no matter what misfortunes came and it seemed like they were non stop. Crazy Glue and Duct Tape saved the day more then once. How he kept a positive attitude or at least was able to talk his way back to one was short of amazing. Mind over matter people--you CAN do or be anything you choose.
Antarctic Tears: Determination, adversity, and the pursuit of a dream at the bottom of the world

[Shelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

My husband has visited most of the continents -- except Australia and Antarctica. Together, we want to explore Australia but I am happy to let him head to Antarctica on his own. The conditions are too extreme for my liking! I have a tremendous amount of respect for Aaron Linsdau for taking on such a daunting adventure. You can literally feel the environment sneak in to the room with you as he describes the conditions of his solo ski trip. His story inspires us to look deeper beyond the traditional signs of success. From the outside, it can look as though we have it all but deep inside, we're left feeling unfulfilled. If you want to take an adventure without the negative aspects, grab a copy of this book!

I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own.

[Apriel · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’m pretty sure I was as happy to finish this book as Linsdau was to reach the South Pole. Not everyone can write a compelling story and I believe his book would have greatly benefited from some expert help. It was so repetitive. While I acknowledge that trekking across Antarctica is repetitive, a talented writer could have made this tale less painful. A professional narrator would have helped as well as Linsdau has the most boring and monotonous voice. Also he seems a little neurotic and judgmental and it was kind of hard to root for him or really care if he made it. 3 very generous stars.

[Jill · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this story. I don't really know much (really anything) about Antarctic expeditions so this was a really interesting story that made me want to research this topic more (did you know Prince Harry went to the South Pole in 2012??) My only complaint about the book is that the author doesn't take a step back and explain things more for those of us who have zero experience with expeditions. For example, he mentions needing to get sponsors but we don't really know why or how the process works (what does the sponsor get? Is he required to do certain things like video tape his journey or do speaking engagements? How much is an expedition to necessitate sponsors?) Also things about the expedition itself weren't explained that well (for example, he mentions needing a "cache" but never really explains to us lay people what that is). However, overall, I really liked this story and would recommend it to anyone who likes adventure stories.

[Steve · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book! This is an incredible story about following dreams and turning them into reality.

As a software engineer who loves a little bit of outdoor adventure in my own life, I can relate to Lindau's feelings of being cooped up in an office and loving his job, yet desiring to be free and experience more of what the world has to offer.

I found Lindau's story to be inspiring and quite enjoyable. I probably won't ever do anything as adventurous as skiing solo across Antarctica, but I hope to be able to do something meaningful like this. at some point. Great book.

[Steve Weber · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you want to learn what it's like to travel across Antartica then this book is a must read. I learned it much more than a flat sheet of ice - the sungari, hills, crevices and mountains make this cold landscape have lots of character.

More importantly, I learned about the mental toughness it takes to fulfill a vision despite physical hardship, disappointment, and setbacks.

Aaron's book is a journey not just to the South Pole, but a journey of resilience and overcoming one's fears.

Bravo!

[Heidi · Rating 3 out of 5]

It could have been an interesting story but it was written in such a way that it became dull and repetitive. The author missed the opportunity to explain things that most of us wouldn't have known and instead repeated himself again and again.
What also struck me was the fact that he had done very little research and was unprepared.
Plus....what happened to all his rubbish. I bet it has been left all over the wilderness.

[Ben · Rating 4 out of 5]

Got this for free off Bookbub. I'm a sucker for "everyman adventures", where an ordinary person attempts an extraordinary quest. The book focuses on his surroundings and practical struggles rather than his personal life, and that was fine with me. If you ever wondered what it would be like to attempt to reach the South Pole, check this one out.

[Joann Nhan noi · Rating 5 out of 5]

An honest story about persistence, determination, and the beauty of the human spirit. Many of us will not afford the ability or chance to go through a journey like this one. Linsdau takes you through his journey day by day, step by step, literally.

[Caroline · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have to say I found this almost as painful as I imagine trekking to the South Pole to be but like the author, I was determined to finish. A very inspiring challenge, but the retelling was a little bit repetitive.

[Kyoung · Rating 5 out of 5]

Surprisingly captivating

I thought I'd skim through a few pages, having zero interest in Antarctica, but this writer hauled me in. What a story! I was THERE. I worried and struggled and marveled and laughed and learned, right along with him!

[Rebecca Murray · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book makes you feel warm and cozy, even in the middle of VT winter

I'm do not typically discuss the book I'm reading with family and friends, but, Antarctic Tears, made me want to bring someone along on the voyage.

[Janice Richardson · Rating 3 out of 5]

One has to admire one who dares to try something new. Aaron Linsdau attempted a solo walk to the South Pole and back. He made it to the South Pole, unable to walk back.

It's an interesting book, a story of intense determination and survival.

[Catherine Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fascinating trip

Recommended to anyone who is even considering a great challenge. You have to have the determination to overcome any and all adversity. You have to be of one mind and forge only forward with mind and body.

[Anne · Rating 2 out of 5]

It's an impressive feat to reach the South Pole. It's also an impressive feat to make the story of doing that dull. A combination of bland writing and sub-standard editing made this a chore to read.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review was originally posted to Jen in Bookland

Antarctic Tears was a really fascinating read. I love the cold and the snow and I have always wanted to visit Antarctica. If you would have told me about trekking across Antarctica before reading this book I would have probably said that sounds like fun. I think I would enjoy that. But now, having read Linsdau's account, I don't think it is for me. You have to be okay with being uncomfortable and I am not. I like backpacking, I like camping outside, but this is a step farther than I am willing to go.

Aaron Linsdau had a plan to hike unsupported to the South Pole and back. He wanted to be the first American to do so. I found his whole journey completely fascinating. So many things he had to think about and take into account both before and during his trip. Training to do an antarctic expediation sounds crazy. I mean how can you really get the same conditions you would have there? You can't. You can only do your best to be prepared and hope for the best.

Now Aaron's trek doesn't go completely as planned. There were so many setbacks I kept thinking I don't even know if he will make it to the pole much less there and back. I loved the descriptions of the setting. How everything is white on white and in some spots very dissorienting because it is just a flat white plane. It is like you are not moving because nothing changes. Or you have those huge fields of sastrugi that he had to go around or through and man it seems like a lot of work. Those sastrugi fields alone would be enough to say no thanks. I just cannot imagine completing such a task. It is amazing that people do. And to do it alone...that is a long time to be out and not see anyone else let alone talk to someone else. To be so alone there is usually not even any signs of life would be amazing, but I don't think I could do it for as long as he did. A few days would be fun, but then I might go a bit crazy. Though I am sure it was so incredibly beautiful. And hard. And dangerous. And amazing. Really to even try and do something that he did would be a big accomplishment.

Through all of the ups and downs I was enthralled from the first pages. From eating blocks of frozen butter to trying to make some milage everyday I couldn't put the book down. I kept stopping and sharing what was happening with my husband because it is fascinating. I never knew anyone who did such a thing, and I have never read a book or seen a movie or anything about it. The closest I have come is watching/reading about climbing Everest which is an entirely different beast. I really enjoyed this story. If you think the idea of traveling across Antarctica sounds interesting you should give it a read. It was a lot of fun and I commend the author for sticking to it and trying to complete his goals. It would have been really easy to give up and go home before he needed to. I probably would have, but like I said I don't like being really uncomfortable. It was a great read.

[Sharon Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

A true life account of one man's battle against the ultimate force on planet earth, Mother Nature and her greatest creation Antarctica and the wilderness that beholds her. How many of us have had the courage to follow our ultimate dream and actually done something about it? From a very young age our intrepid author was obsessed and driven by the drive to conquer Mother Nature and this books tells us how he achieved it.

From his childhood the author had a liking for the great outdoors, joining the scout movement and raising through their ranks learning how to survive. The determination and drive for this guy to achieve his dream of a solo walk to the South Pole is awe inspiring.

This will be loved by anyone who has a great interest in mans basic skill on how to survive the ultimate challenges that Mother Nature can throw at us. Honest and down to earth the author brings to life the images of snow storms and snow blindness along with knowing that one false step can lead to serious injury or even death. Pure grit in his deepest hour shows how far we can push the fragile human body and at times it is not the body that is the main ingredient to survive but the mental power to function and focus on one step at a time.

A book for adventures and travellers, appealing to hard core extreme sports and gave us an insight on how to focus mind and body to achieve our dreams.

[Mystic Miraflores · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very interesting book, both as the author was preparing for his Antarctic journey, and while he was on it. However, I'm not sure if this book was self-published, but it sure needed an editor. There were punctuation mistakes, repetitiveness, and awkward phrasing. I see that the author is now a motivational speaker. These days (and I have experience as someone who just retired after a 31-year professional career), the emphasis is on teamwork and leadership. How can someone who was on a solitary journey for 3 months apply his experience to teamwork and leadership? Sure, the people back home in the US and at ALE gave him advice and moral support, but that's not working side-by-side with people day-in and day-out. The person that fascinated me the most and about whom I want to find out more about is Vilborg. She sounds like an amazing woman! I am intrigued by her mostly because she is my height, around 5 feet. Okay, she is a lot fitter, but my husband said although I won't go to Antarctica (the Rockies and Macchu Picchu were challenging enough for me), I can lose more weight and work on getting fitter, using her as inspiration. Thanks to Aaron for introducing her to me.

[Emily · Rating 3 out of 5]

A compelling story of one man trying to complete a solo round trip to the South Pole unassisted, Antarctic Tears is decently written, but since Aaron Linsdau is on the journey alone, the story lacks a bit of interpersonal relationship. He deals with many obstacles, which makes the reader pull for him as the underdog, but with so many obstacles and such a long journey, the reading becomes somewhat tedious at times with the detailed training or expedition information. Details are good, but here they lack variety as they are mostly about fighting snow and ice and wind day after day. Additionally, it’s hard to read when it seems everything is going wrong. Linsdau has a good attitude, which helps, but it’s still a long list of everything going wrong. Add so much going wrong to an entry for every day of his expedition in addition to the time leading up to the expedition, and there were times I felt like it was going to take me as long to finish this book as it took him to get to the South Pole. So, while it is an interesting story, the idea of less is more could have helped it keep its interest throughout.

[Lily · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolutely thrilling and inspiring story. The pictures definitely helped illustrate the book, and Linsdau will have you holding your breath as he overcomes seemingly impossible obstacles at the bottom of the earth. You can almost feel the icy winds and subzero temperatures as he travels to the pole from the Antarctic coast. The biggest challenge has to be the mental one, however. Literally alone in the middle of a frozen wasteland where often there is no horizon, no sky, and there are absolutely no other forms of life, you are alone with your own thoughts, with no one to talk to, no one to encourage you, and it's a true test of your mettle and inner strength. An absolute must-read.

Received as a gift

[Adam · Rating 3 out of 5]

An Antarctic Diary

Reading about Aaron's journey has piqued my interest in Antarctica, somewhere I'd not thought much about previously. However, like other reviews I found the diary account of the journey to be tedious at times and repetitive. This is of course due to the very nature of the continent itself, which clearly doesn't lend itself to a varied story. In a way the lengthy account helps to convey how massive a task this was, as reading the book felt like a long expedition in itself.

[Blair H. Prigg · Rating 5 out of 5]

FANTASTIC

What a captivating journey. When I got this book, my first thought was that I would probably not read the whole book. Aaron Lindsay proved that I was wrong. Not only did he prove that he could plan and accomplish such an amazing journey, but, he could also write a very good book.

[daisy riddle · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing story!

A true story of determination and dedication. I was exhausted just reading it! It is a well written diary format of the planning and execution of a dream to make a solo trip to the South Pole.

[Jenny Carr · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fascinating, as not just one man's journey to the Pole, but rather the physical, emotional, and psychological hardships he endured. I learned many things about Antarctica that I never knew. Many other previously unanswered questions went answered.

[Madison L · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is amazing. Aaron is either crazy or a whole lot braver than the majority of the population, but this tale is a most read. This book proves that one shouldn’t give up in the face of danger, but just accept it and continue on.