Ordinary Women: An Arctic Adventure

by Sue Carter

Ordinary Women is the exciting chronicle of the first all- women ski expedition from the Russian side of the planet to the North Pole. Team selection, physical training, and the logistics of managing food, clothing, and shelter in an environment that "...wants you dead," are crisply presented in chilling detail, quite literally. Full of surprises from its inception to its execution nearly eight years later, this is an amazing story of women working together, taking on harsh critics, challenging each other, and reaching a common goal. The group, which expanded and contracted through the stresses that all major expeditions face, was made up of determined but fairly ordinary women, who dedicated their arduous trek to young women. From the pitfalls of fundraising to the perils of breaking ice, this intrepid band of adventurers not only achieved their common goal, but transformed themselves in the process.
      Sue Carter, the expedition’s organizer, describes the problems with group leadership, both in preparation for the expedition and while on the ice.
      Nevertheless, the women reached the top of the world, and a waiting NASA crew; for an international webcast to schoolchildren who had followed their expedition; and for a segment on Good Morning America.

202 pages, Hardcover

First published May 1, 2005

Reviews

[Linda Robinson · Rating 2 out of 5]

The cover photo is of the 12 women who skied to the North Pole. The back cover is the author alone. The stuff in between makes this book design backwards. We barely meet the other 11 members of the team. Some the author singles out are presented in a most unflattering light. Yes, as Carter states emphatically - more than once - journalism requires truth. The higher mission of this trek was to demonstrate in real time for young girls and women that females can do whatever men can do. It's unfortunate that the story couldn't be told without the bitter aftertaste of this book. I am trusting the curriculum developed works much better in supporting the goal.

[Patricia Eichenlaub · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fascinating book

[Judy Wise · Rating 4 out of 5]

I personally cannot imagine wanted to ski to the North Pole. However since I know Sue Carter, I was interested in the plans and desires of these women. It was interesting and I admire them for following their dream.
It is not a book that you cannot put down, but you do keep picking it up to see how the next day is going. Susan has a great sence of humor and it sure shows at many times.