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The Iceberg Hermit
Shipwrecked in 1757 on an iceberg in the Arctic seas with only an orphaned polar cub for companionship, seventeen-year-old Allan begins a seemingly hopeless struggle for survival.
219 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1974
26 people are currently reading
675 people want to read
About the author
Arthur J. Roth
22 books15 followersArthur Joseph Roth (Nina Hoy, Barney Mara, Slater McGurk, Pete Pomeroy)
Has worked as a bartender, carpenter, coalminer, factory worker, logger, farmer, high school teacher of Spanish, college instructor in writing, clerk-typist, and truck driver.
Two for Survival was selected as one of the children's books of the year, 1976, by the Children's Book Committee of the Child Study Association.
Under pseudonym Pete Pomeroy:
Wipeout! (1968)
The Mallory Burn (1971)
Crash at Salty Bay (1972)
Under pseudonym Barney Mara:
Forest Fire
Under pseudonym Nina Hoy:
The Runaway (1979)
Under pseudonym Slater McGurk:
The Grand Central Murders (1964)
The Denmark Bus (1966)
The Big Dig (1968)
Has worked as a bartender, carpenter, coalminer, factory worker, logger, farmer, high school teacher of Spanish, college instructor in writing, clerk-typist, and truck driver.
Two for Survival was selected as one of the children's books of the year, 1976, by the Children's Book Committee of the Child Study Association.
Under pseudonym Pete Pomeroy:
Wipeout! (1968)
The Mallory Burn (1971)
Crash at Salty Bay (1972)
Under pseudonym Barney Mara:
Forest Fire
Under pseudonym Nina Hoy:
The Runaway (1979)
Under pseudonym Slater McGurk:
The Grand Central Murders (1964)
The Denmark Bus (1966)
The Big Dig (1968)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 130 reviews
October 7, 2014
I remember reading this as a child and learning that one could drink whiskey to keep warm. A solid life lesson I've applied in many situations.
July 12, 2016
Imagine yourself all alone in the bitter cold without food or drink and the nearest person was probably hundreds of miles away. You are just 17 years old.
In 1757, Scottish whaler Allan Gordon was in the northern Arctic waters when his ship hit an iceberg. All hands were lost except for this young man. THE ICEBERG HERMIT was based on his adventure.
The author did an excellent job transporting the reader to another time and place. You witness first-hand Allan's anguish: his extreme loneliness, his worries about retrieving fresh water, and the frigid, glacial cold that keeps him from sleeping.
He was tormented because his father had died and he was the family breadwinner. He agonized over what his mother would think when she was told his ship had sunk. And what about his three sisters whom depended on him? Lastly, would his beloved Nancy wait for him to return home?
This particular story was originally published in 1974 and I could see where it would be an excellent tool for middle and high school discussion groups. I also think it is an excellent young adult book on ship-wrecks and survival for adults to consider. Observations after reading the story are, in fact, whether it really did happen.
The Scottish writer James Hogg wrote about this character in 'The Surpassing Adventures of Allan Gordon' sometime in the early 1800's. His narrative was taken down by the schoolmaster Duff and was something Hogg was in possession of at the time. After skimming that story I realized that THE ICEBERG HERMIT is a gentled and romanticized (though this is NOT a romance) version of what supposedly happened. But many of the questions I had at the end of TIH were finally answered.
In 1757, Scottish whaler Allan Gordon was in the northern Arctic waters when his ship hit an iceberg. All hands were lost except for this young man. THE ICEBERG HERMIT was based on his adventure.
The author did an excellent job transporting the reader to another time and place. You witness first-hand Allan's anguish: his extreme loneliness, his worries about retrieving fresh water, and the frigid, glacial cold that keeps him from sleeping.
He was tormented because his father had died and he was the family breadwinner. He agonized over what his mother would think when she was told his ship had sunk. And what about his three sisters whom depended on him? Lastly, would his beloved Nancy wait for him to return home?
This particular story was originally published in 1974 and I could see where it would be an excellent tool for middle and high school discussion groups. I also think it is an excellent young adult book on ship-wrecks and survival for adults to consider. Observations after reading the story are, in fact, whether it really did happen.
The Scottish writer James Hogg wrote about this character in 'The Surpassing Adventures of Allan Gordon' sometime in the early 1800's. His narrative was taken down by the schoolmaster Duff and was something Hogg was in possession of at the time. After skimming that story I realized that THE ICEBERG HERMIT is a gentled and romanticized (though this is NOT a romance) version of what supposedly happened. But many of the questions I had at the end of TIH were finally answered.
January 7, 2016
The first adventure story I ever read. I ordered this book through a monthly book order form at my old school and was instantly hooked. I was maybe 10 when I first got it, am now 36, and multiple readings of Roth's well-written novel shortly after having received it have bestowed upon me a deep appreciation for true stories of the sea that revolve around shipwrecks, exploration and survival against the odds.
I've searched the net several times to see if it is indeed based on a true story, and all I find are forums are book forums where people are asking the same question and have been doing so for years. The big kid in me likes to think it's true, but its veracity makes no difference in its overall enjoyability. It's still a ripping good story of man against impossible odds in an unforgivable climate.
I've searched the net several times to see if it is indeed based on a true story, and all I find are forums are book forums where people are asking the same question and have been doing so for years. The big kid in me likes to think it's true, but its veracity makes no difference in its overall enjoyability. It's still a ripping good story of man against impossible odds in an unforgivable climate.
January 10, 2014
What a great story! I first read this book when I was 11 and out of nostalgia I thought I would read it again. It's an easy read and a very enjoyable tale.
However, I really only have one complaint- but one which is not necessarily the fault of the author: I didn't like how Allan Gordon killed the momma polar bear. I mean, he awakes in the middle of night to find this polar bear in his cabin- so what does he do? He first scares it so it's trying to escape out the window, it gets stuck while trying to climb out, Gordon then proceeds to stab it to death. Why did he do this? He had plenty of food, he had shelter, water and fire. There was no reason for him to kill this creature. I think the schoolmaster really had something when he said, "[Gordon] doesn't have enough brains to fill a thimble." I suppose, however, that killing the creature worked to Gordon's advantage since as a result, he had to raise the polar bear cub which later saved his life. But what a rash thing to do! Like I said, I don't think this was bad writing since, technically, this book was based on a whaler's tale that may or may not have been true.
Moreover, I enjoyed the lesson that Gordon learned in the end that he, Gordon, didn't need anyone's good or bad opinion of him. In other words, when you've been through the ups and downs of life (or survival in this case), you see that what other people may think of you isn't really so important. I've read a few of Arthur Roth's books and I always enjoy these simple, yet profound lessons.
Good book! I recommend.
However, I really only have one complaint- but one which is not necessarily the fault of the author: I didn't like how Allan Gordon killed the momma polar bear. I mean, he awakes in the middle of night to find this polar bear in his cabin- so what does he do? He first scares it so it's trying to escape out the window, it gets stuck while trying to climb out, Gordon then proceeds to stab it to death. Why did he do this? He had plenty of food, he had shelter, water and fire. There was no reason for him to kill this creature. I think the schoolmaster really had something when he said, "[Gordon] doesn't have enough brains to fill a thimble." I suppose, however, that killing the creature worked to Gordon's advantage since as a result, he had to raise the polar bear cub which later saved his life. But what a rash thing to do! Like I said, I don't think this was bad writing since, technically, this book was based on a whaler's tale that may or may not have been true.
Moreover, I enjoyed the lesson that Gordon learned in the end that he, Gordon, didn't need anyone's good or bad opinion of him. In other words, when you've been through the ups and downs of life (or survival in this case), you see that what other people may think of you isn't really so important. I've read a few of Arthur Roth's books and I always enjoy these simple, yet profound lessons.
Good book! I recommend.
February 28, 2008
This is a great adventure book. It is based on the true story of a teenage boy who was the sole survivor after the whaling ship he was working on crashed into an iceberg. He was stranded on a huge iceberg for three years and had to find ways to survive, using what he could salvage from the wrecked ship that remained on the iceberg. When he finally made his way back to his hometown (in the 1700's), nobody believed his story of survival, saying it was impossible. The author of this book believes him, and he is convincing in his explanation for how the main character could have survived. This is a fun book!
August 4, 2020
Note: An excellent Covid-19 read.
The Iceberg Hermit by Roth is a YA book from the 1970s that would benefit from a few more pages, just a bit more development, based on my second reading in the 21st Century. Age-wise, my eight-year-old son looked forward to this as a bedtime storybook.
I love this story, based on the actual experience of young Allan Gordon of Aberdeen, Scotland. In 1756, the 17-year-old is on a whaling ship near Greenland, which smashes into, and then onto, an iceberg. Allan is the only survivor.
No spoilers here!
The Iceberg Hermit by Roth is a YA book from the 1970s that would benefit from a few more pages, just a bit more development, based on my second reading in the 21st Century. Age-wise, my eight-year-old son looked forward to this as a bedtime storybook.
I love this story, based on the actual experience of young Allan Gordon of Aberdeen, Scotland. In 1756, the 17-year-old is on a whaling ship near Greenland, which smashes into, and then onto, an iceberg. Allan is the only survivor.
No spoilers here!
July 20, 2011
Of all the books I read in high school, I think this one stands out in my memory the most. I really enjoyed the cozy though intense setting the author created and the strong theme of survival.
January 1, 2016
I sincerely hope that Allan Gordon's tale is true.
August 13, 2018
From what I remember, this has a sort of 'Life of Pi' vibe to it. Excellent read either way!
April 2, 2025
This book popped off in 5th grade
October 15, 2020
Onvan : The Iceberg Hermit - Nevisande : Arthur J. Roth - ISBN : 0590441124 - ISBN13 : 9780590441124 - Dar 224 Safhe - Saal e Chap : 1974
March 25, 2019
This book is unisex. It's a tale of adventure and survival that appeals to men, but has a subtle love story woven into the mix that makes the main character, Allan, appealing to women. Another interesting factor is that its based on a true story. Read it and you'll want to know the real story behind it!
It's a short book by my standards but very fun to read. I count it among my favorites. I have read it six times.
I didn't purchase this book or pick it out. My sister went to the library and while there grabbed two bags of paperback books that were on the free table. She brought them home and gave me one, saying "here I got this for you, cause I know you like to read." All of the books were old romance novels, except The Iceberg Hermit.
I chose The Iceberg Hermit because no matter how many times I read it; its still just as good as the first time. I don't get bored and skip over parts because I know them. I think its refreshing!!
It's a short book by my standards but very fun to read. I count it among my favorites. I have read it six times.
I didn't purchase this book or pick it out. My sister went to the library and while there grabbed two bags of paperback books that were on the free table. She brought them home and gave me one, saying "here I got this for you, cause I know you like to read." All of the books were old romance novels, except The Iceberg Hermit.
I chose The Iceberg Hermit because no matter how many times I read it; its still just as good as the first time. I don't get bored and skip over parts because I know them. I think its refreshing!!
October 29, 2012
Short, simple read. But I loved it. Allan Gordon, a 17 year old on a whaling ship, is stranded on an iceberg after his ship crashes. He is the only survivor and manages to stay alive in the harsh conditions for about 7 years. He also, and this is the best part, befriends a baby polar bear and raises it. This polar bear, Nancy whom he names after his girlfriend back home, save his life multiple times. Allan lives in the crashed ship, which somehow managed to get trapped in the iceberg (I never really understood how this worked), for a couple years before he meets up with an "Eskimo" tribe. Supposedly the whole thing is based on a true story which made it 10x better for me. I think kids are required to read this book in middle school, so it isn’t mature reading, but I still would recommend it.
January 23, 2013
I was hoping this was a book I read as a child of which I can't remember the name. Sadly, it was not. Still, it was a harrowing tale full of sailors, polar bears, Inuits, and the oppressive Arctic winter. Allegedly, it is the story told by a Scottish sailor in the 18th century.
Unfortunately the story has a number of distracting impossiblities that don't allow me to take it seriously while somehow taking itself seriously. While the plot is whimsical, the writing is most decidedly not.
However I am a little biased because this was not the book I was hoping it would be. That took place in the Antarctic and the main character befriended a penguin. Otherwise, it was a very similar story in many ways. Hopefully I'll find that book one day.
Unfortunately the story has a number of distracting impossiblities that don't allow me to take it seriously while somehow taking itself seriously. While the plot is whimsical, the writing is most decidedly not.
However I am a little biased because this was not the book I was hoping it would be. That took place in the Antarctic and the main character befriended a penguin. Otherwise, it was a very similar story in many ways. Hopefully I'll find that book one day.
March 10, 2018
This was my favorite book as a kid. I did a shoebox diorama based on this book once :)
June 23, 2019
I recall reading this as a kid. The first adventure book I recall reading. Still fills me with nostalgia.
October 31, 2019
This was one of my favorite books as a child; it is still a satisfying read after all these years.
March 2, 2020
I read this as a kid and remember loving it. I picked it up again and it did not disappoint.
August 31, 2024
Arthur J. Roth's "The Iceberg Hermit" offers an engrossing tale of survival against the stark, unforgiving backdrop of Arctic ice. Published amidst a body of work under various pseudonyms, Roth's narrative stands out for its raw depiction of solitude and endurance. Set in 1757, the novel follows seventeen-year-old Allan, who, after being shipwrecked, finds himself stranded on an iceberg with only an orphaned polar bear cub for company.
Roth's novel shares a thematic lineage with Gary Paulsen's "Hatchet," but it forges its own identity by delving deeper into the harsh realities of survival. Unlike "Hatchet," which intertwines survival with teenage angst, "The Iceberg Hermit" steers clear of adolescent turmoil, opting instead for a more direct exploration of human resilience and adaptability. The narrative is straightforward and progresses steadily, capturing the reader's interest with a consistent forward momentum that mirrors Allan's quest for survival.
The characterization in "The Iceberg Hermit" is notably robust. Allan’s evolution from a desperate castaway to a resourceful survivor is well-crafted and compelling. The author's detailed descriptions of the Arctic environment, combined with the tangible challenges faced by the protagonist, enrich the narrative, making Allan’s experiences vivid and credible.
A particularly commendable aspect of the novel is its historical grounding, presented in the final chapter, which adds a satisfying depth to the reading experience. It ties the personal journey of Allan back to the broader human experience and the timeless allure of survival stories.
"The Iceberg Hermit" is recommended for readers who are captivated by tales of survival and human tenacity. While it may not revolutionize the genre, it is a commendable and engaging entry. Its straightforward storytelling and well-rounded characters make it a worthwhile read for those fascinated by survival narratives or historical adventures in the Arctic. For those not drawn to such themes, this book might not resonate as strongly, but for its target audience, it offers a solid and fulfilling adventure.
Roth's novel shares a thematic lineage with Gary Paulsen's "Hatchet," but it forges its own identity by delving deeper into the harsh realities of survival. Unlike "Hatchet," which intertwines survival with teenage angst, "The Iceberg Hermit" steers clear of adolescent turmoil, opting instead for a more direct exploration of human resilience and adaptability. The narrative is straightforward and progresses steadily, capturing the reader's interest with a consistent forward momentum that mirrors Allan's quest for survival.
The characterization in "The Iceberg Hermit" is notably robust. Allan’s evolution from a desperate castaway to a resourceful survivor is well-crafted and compelling. The author's detailed descriptions of the Arctic environment, combined with the tangible challenges faced by the protagonist, enrich the narrative, making Allan’s experiences vivid and credible.
A particularly commendable aspect of the novel is its historical grounding, presented in the final chapter, which adds a satisfying depth to the reading experience. It ties the personal journey of Allan back to the broader human experience and the timeless allure of survival stories.
"The Iceberg Hermit" is recommended for readers who are captivated by tales of survival and human tenacity. While it may not revolutionize the genre, it is a commendable and engaging entry. Its straightforward storytelling and well-rounded characters make it a worthwhile read for those fascinated by survival narratives or historical adventures in the Arctic. For those not drawn to such themes, this book might not resonate as strongly, but for its target audience, it offers a solid and fulfilling adventure.
February 8, 2023
The Iceberg Hermit is based on a true story. It is a YA novel. I picked it up in the Little Library across the street from my house. It was written in 1974 and probably why I hadn't read it as a girl is because it wouldn't had appealed to me. How times changed! I think the author did an excellent job in telling the story. I really enjoy adventure stories as an adult.
It's 1757 and whaler Allan Gordon from Aberdeen, Scotland is in the northern Arctic waters when the ship hits an iceberg because of the fog. Everyone dies except for 17 year old Allan who has been thrown from his lookout point onto a ledge of the iceberg.
Back in Scotland, he is the family breadwinner since his father is dead. Whaling earns more money than any other profession. He is now responsible for his mother and three sisters. He has a girlfriend, Nancy waiting for him to return home too.
This is the story of Allan Gordon's adventure and of his survival. WOW!
It's 1757 and whaler Allan Gordon from Aberdeen, Scotland is in the northern Arctic waters when the ship hits an iceberg because of the fog. Everyone dies except for 17 year old Allan who has been thrown from his lookout point onto a ledge of the iceberg.
Back in Scotland, he is the family breadwinner since his father is dead. Whaling earns more money than any other profession. He is now responsible for his mother and three sisters. He has a girlfriend, Nancy waiting for him to return home too.
This is the story of Allan Gordon's adventure and of his survival. WOW!
December 7, 2010
Wilson Mather-Glass
Ms. Romaniuk
Reading/L.A. Book Review 6
7 December 2010
The Iceberg Hermit:
A Questionable Story of Survival
When seventeen year old Allan Gordon’s whaling ship crashes into an iceberg, and he’s stranded on land that’s completely frozen over, things don’t seem to look up. The Anna Forbes, Allan’s ship freezes upside down into land, trapping Allan inside. Days later, Allan manages to find his way out of the ship, only to realize that he is the lone survivor. He then has to learn how to survive on his own, with limited food and a scarce amount of water. But is he not alone. Desperate to escape the island, Allan has to make it through days without food and water, as well as predators twice his size. Will Allan ever return to his home, or will he spend his final days in isolation? The Iceberg Hermit is a compelling novel, based on a true story, interpreted by author Arthur Roth. Many believe this story to be true, while some believe it is pure nonsense. The Iceberg Hermit is not your average survival tale because it is very realistic, you become close with the main character, Allan, and the book takes many unexpected turns.
The Iceberg Hermit is not your average tale of survival because it is very realistic. Many survival stories are quite far-fetched, making the story more interesting. However, The Iceberg Hermit was compelling, while still being realistic. Allan definitely had to make it through many external conflicts in the story, but early in the book, there was another main problem that didn’t involve fending off predators, or finding food. The loneliness on the island was Allan’s main concern at many points throughout the book. The text states, “The big thing that worried him (Allan) now was the loneliness. With no one to talk to, to share his problems with, even to argue with, it was hard to keep his spirits up. After a while nothing seemed important anymore if there was no one else around to see how important it was.” If I was the lone survivor on that island, I know a main feeling I would have would be loneliness. This passage shows that Allan feels emotions that everybody else feels, and is not just focused on food and water, but on everyday emotions as well. This is a very realistic story and Allan is a very realistic character.
Secondly, The Iceberg Hermit is not your average tale of survival because you become close with Allan, the main character. As many survival stories are, this book is filled with action. In many cases, the book focuses so much on the main characters tremendous acts, you don’t get to know the character as well as you would like to. This, however, is not at all the case in The Iceberg Hermit. Over time, you begin to realize how brave Allan is. Allan’s first real encounter with a polar bear is described in detail; “ He was so frightened that he had to do something. He hurriedly set the torch in the tin box that he used as a stove, ran over and plunged his knife into the bear’s side, just beneath the bear’s huge white arm.” Instead of freezing up, or giving up completely, Allan stayed and fought the monstrous creature, basically unknown to him. If I was faced in this situation, I’m almost sure I would pass out, or try to find a way out of the ship, running as fast as I can. I would never have the nerve to fight a creature twice my size. Another trait Allan shows quite often in the book is optimism. Being trapped on an island for five years with no sign of civilization would make almost anyone lose hope. The book really shows how much hope Allan did have though, and how much he valued his life. As you can see, when reading this book, Allan’s traits really stand out, and you begin to like him and feel his emotions and struggles.
Lastly, The Iceberg Hermit is not your average tale of survival because the book takes many unexpected turns. In this book, things aren’t always what they seem, which is a good thing, that keeps you on edge. When Allan finally spots a whaling ship that could potentially take him back home, he feels that all his doubts about leaving are gone. “He (Allan) grabbed his paddle came running down the bluff and launched his canoe. Several hours later the whaling ship bore down on him, its deck crowded with curious sailors.” But when Allan eagerly asked for them to take him on board, he received an unexpected answer. The text states, “He found it hard to believe what was happening. They actually had no intention of taking him on board!” After years of waiting for someone to show up, he is rejected. Just when I thought that Allan would go back to his home and the book would be resolved, Allan is again forced to head back to the island, he had hoped he would never see again. I never expected this to happen, which made this book even more of an enjoyable read. This book clearly takes some unexpected turns.
The Iceberg Hermit is not your average survival tale because it is very realistic, you become close with the main character, Allan, and the book takes many unexpected turns. I would give this book four stars. When I read this book, the first thing that came to my mind was the new movie “127 Hours”. Like The Iceberg Hermit, it is a true survival story where you connect with the main character very well. I learned from this book that a story doesn’t have to be told in first or second person to be in the middle of all the action.
I believe that I deserve on this report, because I took my time with this review, I made it lengthy, and I fulfilled the requirements. This book review wasn’t as hard as some, because I felt it was easy to connect to the story. My plans for improving include more interesting topic sentences, and examples that are slightly more related to the story. This book was much better than I expected.
Ms. Romaniuk
Reading/L.A. Book Review 6
7 December 2010
The Iceberg Hermit:
A Questionable Story of Survival
When seventeen year old Allan Gordon’s whaling ship crashes into an iceberg, and he’s stranded on land that’s completely frozen over, things don’t seem to look up. The Anna Forbes, Allan’s ship freezes upside down into land, trapping Allan inside. Days later, Allan manages to find his way out of the ship, only to realize that he is the lone survivor. He then has to learn how to survive on his own, with limited food and a scarce amount of water. But is he not alone. Desperate to escape the island, Allan has to make it through days without food and water, as well as predators twice his size. Will Allan ever return to his home, or will he spend his final days in isolation? The Iceberg Hermit is a compelling novel, based on a true story, interpreted by author Arthur Roth. Many believe this story to be true, while some believe it is pure nonsense. The Iceberg Hermit is not your average survival tale because it is very realistic, you become close with the main character, Allan, and the book takes many unexpected turns.
The Iceberg Hermit is not your average tale of survival because it is very realistic. Many survival stories are quite far-fetched, making the story more interesting. However, The Iceberg Hermit was compelling, while still being realistic. Allan definitely had to make it through many external conflicts in the story, but early in the book, there was another main problem that didn’t involve fending off predators, or finding food. The loneliness on the island was Allan’s main concern at many points throughout the book. The text states, “The big thing that worried him (Allan) now was the loneliness. With no one to talk to, to share his problems with, even to argue with, it was hard to keep his spirits up. After a while nothing seemed important anymore if there was no one else around to see how important it was.” If I was the lone survivor on that island, I know a main feeling I would have would be loneliness. This passage shows that Allan feels emotions that everybody else feels, and is not just focused on food and water, but on everyday emotions as well. This is a very realistic story and Allan is a very realistic character.
Secondly, The Iceberg Hermit is not your average tale of survival because you become close with Allan, the main character. As many survival stories are, this book is filled with action. In many cases, the book focuses so much on the main characters tremendous acts, you don’t get to know the character as well as you would like to. This, however, is not at all the case in The Iceberg Hermit. Over time, you begin to realize how brave Allan is. Allan’s first real encounter with a polar bear is described in detail; “ He was so frightened that he had to do something. He hurriedly set the torch in the tin box that he used as a stove, ran over and plunged his knife into the bear’s side, just beneath the bear’s huge white arm.” Instead of freezing up, or giving up completely, Allan stayed and fought the monstrous creature, basically unknown to him. If I was faced in this situation, I’m almost sure I would pass out, or try to find a way out of the ship, running as fast as I can. I would never have the nerve to fight a creature twice my size. Another trait Allan shows quite often in the book is optimism. Being trapped on an island for five years with no sign of civilization would make almost anyone lose hope. The book really shows how much hope Allan did have though, and how much he valued his life. As you can see, when reading this book, Allan’s traits really stand out, and you begin to like him and feel his emotions and struggles.
Lastly, The Iceberg Hermit is not your average tale of survival because the book takes many unexpected turns. In this book, things aren’t always what they seem, which is a good thing, that keeps you on edge. When Allan finally spots a whaling ship that could potentially take him back home, he feels that all his doubts about leaving are gone. “He (Allan) grabbed his paddle came running down the bluff and launched his canoe. Several hours later the whaling ship bore down on him, its deck crowded with curious sailors.” But when Allan eagerly asked for them to take him on board, he received an unexpected answer. The text states, “He found it hard to believe what was happening. They actually had no intention of taking him on board!” After years of waiting for someone to show up, he is rejected. Just when I thought that Allan would go back to his home and the book would be resolved, Allan is again forced to head back to the island, he had hoped he would never see again. I never expected this to happen, which made this book even more of an enjoyable read. This book clearly takes some unexpected turns.
The Iceberg Hermit is not your average survival tale because it is very realistic, you become close with the main character, Allan, and the book takes many unexpected turns. I would give this book four stars. When I read this book, the first thing that came to my mind was the new movie “127 Hours”. Like The Iceberg Hermit, it is a true survival story where you connect with the main character very well. I learned from this book that a story doesn’t have to be told in first or second person to be in the middle of all the action.
I believe that I deserve on this report, because I took my time with this review, I made it lengthy, and I fulfilled the requirements. This book review wasn’t as hard as some, because I felt it was easy to connect to the story. My plans for improving include more interesting topic sentences, and examples that are slightly more related to the story. This book was much better than I expected.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 19, 2021
This is an incredibly touching story about friendship and hope, and gave me the “just one more chapter” feeling throughout the entire book. Unexpected friendships between man and animal are always heart warming and the fact that it is based on a true story made it even better. I cannot put into words how much this book means to me, as I now remember why it touched me so much as a child. We live day to day in comfort surrounded by other humans, unbothered by the most bitter and harshest elements of nature. This book presents us with the terrifying reality of isolation and exposure, while also providing a glimpse into our own wild spirit, and the willpower to survive, even in a place as unforgiving as the Arctic.
January 1, 2021
This was a book that I vaguely and fondly remembered reading as a child or teen but could not recall the title or author. Now and then I would search the Internet, hoping to figure out what book had the story of a boy stranded in the Artic, who befriended a polar bear and managed to survive. Finally I found this book, ordered a used copy online, and hoped it was the one.
This is the book I remember reading. Have you ever searched for a childhood book?
It would make a fun read-aloud for boys, I think. Apparently it’s based on a true story.
This is the book I remember reading. Have you ever searched for a childhood book?
It would make a fun read-aloud for boys, I think. Apparently it’s based on a true story.
February 3, 2020
This was a very good book in my eyes it was confusing but very nice. I enjoyed this book but there was some parts that made me bored and wanna get rid of it that’s why i think this book deserves a 4 star for making me wanna stay and read more because of the character and characters story but it was sometimes boring but to be honest a great book highly recommend it if you like survival an adventure
February 21, 2022
I read this first in 6th grade and loved it. Upon re-read, I see that I still enjoy it. I wonder at the realism (but hey, Nancy was the best part of the story) as well as the use of the term "girlfriend" with a book set in the 1700s...but that may be too picky.
At times, the plot was slow, helped not at all by the fact that there was so little dialogue. In my mind, these are not critiques but facts. I would have my child read this book someday.
At times, the plot was slow, helped not at all by the fact that there was so little dialogue. In my mind, these are not critiques but facts. I would have my child read this book someday.
March 10, 2023
I picked up this book at a little free library--because how can you not pick up a book with this cover?-- and it's so representative of the weird and wonderful gifts that can come your way from community spaces.
Teenage Alan Gordon is the only survivor of a shipwreck. His steps toward survival are astonishing. My favorite chapter is, perhaps, the last one.
Since we were reading this with our animal-sensitive daughter, we did have to do some censorship on the fly to avoid tears.
Teenage Alan Gordon is the only survivor of a shipwreck. His steps toward survival are astonishing. My favorite chapter is, perhaps, the last one.
Since we were reading this with our animal-sensitive daughter, we did have to do some censorship on the fly to avoid tears.
April 22, 2020
This is a good book for younger readers. Older readers may notice some strange inconsistencies in this tale from the 18th century. It seems to be true that Allan Gordon was on a whaling ship, which sank, close to the Arctic, and he was the only survivor. Then he managed to get back to Scotland seven years later. A good story about the human ability to survive extreme circumstances.
April 25, 2020
This book is a very fun read. I enjoyed every part of the story except for Nancy’s exit. I was hoping that would be drawn out more with more emotion, but it was very quick. And the last paragraph was strange and I think the book would be fine without it. I would have like to see the reunion of Allan with his family.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 12, 2021
One of the few books I read as a kid and for the nostalgia and overall story I give it a 5. As an avid rum fan, this story was my introduction to rum and how alcohol has a psychological warming sensation. I wanted a better departure of Nancy, but all in all I really enjoyed it and it was a rather quick read. Now have to google the "facts" of Allen Gordon.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 11, 2024
Great adventure & survival story. Did a book report on it in 5th grade and my teacher liked what I wrote so much that I had to show the class what an A+ report looked like. I think I got that A+ because I felt so much a part of the book--it just captured me and I felt a part of the struggle. As a result, my report was devoid of pretense and insincerity.
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