Margot Morrell

When I came across Shackleton’s story in 1984, I was so intrigued I dusted off my rusty library science degree and set off to find out how he did it.

I read every book I could find, joined polar book mailing lists, flew to Seattle for book auctions, and spent vacations digging into files at Scott Polar Research Institute, the Royal Geographical Society, Shackleton’s alma mater, Dulwich College and at the homes of descendants of Endurance crew-members.

On my way to Antarctica in 1995, I zipped by the Alexander Turnbull Library in Wellington, NZ. A conversation with a librarian there led to transcribing diaries kept onboard Endurance. I wanted to know what Shackleton’s crew said about his leadership while their survival was in doubt.

A few years later, Wall Street Journal editor Stephanie Capparell, interviewed me for an article about Shackleton. An editor from Penguin Putnam reached out to ask if I wanted to “write a book on the subject.”

Whether you’re leading a worldwide organization, guiding a dedicated team of tough professionals, or shepherding a flock of loved ones, Shackleton’s timeless leadership lessons will provide you with useful guidance.