Library of Ice: Readings from a Cold Climate

In her book "The Library of Ice," Nancy Campbell explores the impact of ice on our lives at a time when it is under threat from climate change. The book combines memoir, scientific and cultural history, and a bewitching account of landscape and place. It is a fascinating and beautifully rendered evocation of the interplay of people and their environment on a fragile planet, and of a writer's quest to define the value of her work in a disappearing landscape.

Format: Hardback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 01 November 2018
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Ltd

A captivating and insightful literary work that seamlessly blends memoir, scientific and cultural history, and a mesmerizing portrayal of landscape and place, The Library of Ice is sure to captivate readers who enjoy the works of Robert Macfarlane, Roger Deakin, and Olivia Laing.

Long fascinated by the solid yet ephemeral nature of ice, its rugged and awe-inspiring beauty, acclaimed poet and writer Nancy Campbell embarks on a journey from the northernmost museum in Greenland, Upernavik, to explore its many facets. From the archives of the Bodleian Library to the traces left by legendary polar expeditions, from remote Arctic settlements to the ice houses of Calcutta, she delves into the profound impact of ice on our lives, particularly in the face of the looming threat of climate change.

The Library of Ice is a mesmerizing and exquisitely rendered portrayal of the intricate interplay between people and their environment on a delicate planet, as well as a writer's personal quest to define the value of her work in a rapidly disappearing landscape.

In this captivating and dreamlike book, the writer and poet offers reflections on ice and snow that draw upon art, science, and history, creating a truly immersive experience. The reader is transported to the icy realms of the Earth, where glaciers, Arctic floes, verglas, frost, and snow serve as the perfect guides. Campbell's exceptional physical intelligence and remarkable brilliance of her eye ensure that the reader is fully immersed in the worlds she explores, leaving them with a profound appreciation for the beauty and fragility of our planet.

Through her travels and research, Campbell explores the historical and cultural significance of ice, shedding light on its role in shaping human societies environment, and its impact on our lives. From the ancient Inuit communities that relied on ice for survival to the modern scientific discoveries that have unlocked the secrets of ice's behavior, The Library of Ice offers a comprehensive and thought-provoking exploration of this fascinating subject.

What sets this book apart is its ability to blend personal reflection with broader cultural and historical contexts. Campbell's journey as a penniless but intrepid traveler, braving miserable bus journeys, freezing rain, dark and intense cold, is not only a testament to her determination and resilience but also provides a poignant lens through which to view the changing landscape. Her experiences and observations are interwoven with insights from scientists, artists, and historians, creating a rich tapestry of knowledge and understanding.

The Library of Ice is a delightful and thought-provoking meditation on a substance that we must cherish and protect. It reminds us of the importance of preserving our natural world and the delicate balance of our ecosystems. It also serves as a call to action, urging us to take steps to mitigate the effects of climate change and to work towards a sustainable future.

In conclusion, The Library of Ice is a remarkable book that offers a captivating blend of memoir, scientific and cultural history, and a mesmerizing portrayal of landscape and place. Through the eyes of Nancy Campbell, the reader is transported to the icy ends of the Earth, where glaciers, Arctic floes, verglas, frost, and snow serve as the perfect guides. Campbell's exceptional physical intelligence and remarkable brilliance of her eye ensure that the reader is fully immersed in the worlds she explores, leaving them with a profound appreciation for the beauty and fragility of our planet. This book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys the works of Robert Macfarlane, Roger Deakin, and Olivia Laing, as well as anyone who is interested in the history, culture, and science of ice.

Weight: 414g
Dimension: 144 x 222 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781471169311