The last explorer

by Simon Nasht

Hubert Wilkins (1888-1958) comes across as a composite of Biggles, James Bond and Indianna Jones and why so few Australians know of him amazes me. Nasht's research enables an engrossing description of Wilkin's life as a photographer in WWI (twice decorated for bravery), pioneer aviator and survivor of three plane crashes, 33 expeditions in polar regions, original submarines seeking the North Pole, knighted by the Kings of England and Italy ... What drove this man is still relevant today as he sought to understand and forecast weather patterns which he belieived originated in the polar regions.

Very highly recommended and very readable.

10/10

reviewed by Mr Kim C.