Pamela H

I found lots to like and think about in this book. The unfolding story of the disintegrating marriage of a prep school headmaster and his wife was touching and involving. Their stories, told in two parts, encourage us to examine the choices people make, what love in its various forms causes us to do, and the impact a tragedy has.

Greene's writing suits his story; lovely and evocative. I'll recommend this to my book club as I think my reaction won't be the same for every reader, which should make for a good discussion.

Really enjoyed this unique story set against the background of the bright red ice breaker ship "Nella Dan", which traveled between Tasmania and Antarctica. Isla, a young girl ill-cared for by her mother, and Bo, a Danish shipmate from the Nella, strike up a friendship. Isla's world expands - but that may not be an all together good thing. Beautifully expressed and evocative, I'll think about this book for a long time.