Pole to pole

In 'POLE TO POLE' we join Michael Palin on the second of his epic journeys. Traveling from the North Pole to the South Pole he experiences every extreme the globe has to offer. As Palin crosses 17 countries by train, truck, raft, Ski-Doo, barge, balloon and bicycle, he meets a diverse range of fascinating characters and landscapes while his own endurance is tested to the limit. Braving the cold grip of the Arctic Circle and swirling snowstorms of Spitsbergen, Palins adventure starts when he is somewhat surreally enrolled in the Royal and Ancient Polar Bear Society. From then on, Palin negotiates his way past the advances of friendly locals, dodges occasional gunfire and battles with an unruly digestive system to finally stand in Scotts shoes at the South Pole in the Land of the Midnight Sun. 'POLE TO POLE' is essential reading for every would-be traveller. Writing in his characteristically engaging and witty style, Palin paints a vivid picture of the people and places around him, reinforcing his reputation as one of the worlds favourite travel writers. Updated with double the number of location photographers, these classic travel writing lightness of touch with insights. 'Palin makes a wonderful traveling companion - his humour is set at exactly the right pitch'. The Daily Telegraph '[Palin] is as engaging a writer as he is a presenter, and one keeps turning the pages with anticipation and pleasure'. Sunday Telegraph 'Palin writes with unforced wit, keen observation and a simple, happy style'. Sir Ranulph Fiennes, Sunday Express