Roald Amundsen’s life unfolds as an epic tale of ambition, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of discovery. In tracing Amundsen’s journey from his Norwegian upbringing to his place among the most celebrated explorers of the modern era, Stephen R. Bown offers readers a window into both the man and the era that shaped him. The narrative delves into the motivations that drove Amundsen to the world’s most inhospitable frontiers and the leadership qualities that enabled his legendary polar conquests. This exploration of Amundsen’s character and accomplishments serves not only as a historical account but also as a meditation...