Frostline Review: Why This Heartfelt Book Makes a Compelling Case for the North Pole

Frostline
Neil Shea, Picador (UK, February 12) Ecco Publishing (US, available now)

The North Pole might seem like a vast, desolate place dominated by walruses and polar bears, but a new perspective emerges in Neil Shea’s compelling book. He highlights the importance of the Arctic as climate change accelerates, arguing that it demands our attention.

In Frostline: A Journey Through the Complexities of Life and Landscapes in the Warming Arctic, journalist Neil Shea gathers insights from twenty years of dedicated reporting for National Geographic. This profound narrative illuminating the North Pole’s realities resonates with readers, even those who have never set foot there.

Shea’s journey begins with breathtaking images from his inaugural trip to the North Pole in 2005, where he camped on the sea ice of Admiralty Bay, Canada. Witnessing a large gathering of narwhals was exhilarating, as the males exhibited their fangs in displays of dominance.

The sight of life converging in a fragile ecosystem inspired Shea’s deep fascination with the Arctic. He adeptly conveys his passion through vivid descriptions and memorable encounters with the wildlife of this remarkable region.

On Ellesmere Island, Shea connects with a pack of white wolves that exhibit no fear of humans, showcasing the intricate relationships within this ecosystem. In Alaska’s Kobuk Valley National Park, he camps amongst extensive caribou herds, coexisting with brown bears on their seasonal migrations.

While Shea beautifully depicts the Arctic’s wildlife and landscapes, he also provides a more nuanced understanding of this complex region. The Arctic is not merely a snowy expanse; it consists of eight modern states and is home to 4 million people, including 400,000 Indigenous individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Through his vivid portrayals of the local communities, Shea highlights the unique challenges they face as they battle against climate change, which is impacting the Arctic much more rapidly than other regions on Earth. Some of his Inuit interviewees eagerly share their experiences with the changes they’ve witnessed, while others harbor reservations towards Western inquiries, seeking a more profound respect for their culture.

While reflecting on his time spent camping on frozen lakes, Shea realizes the importance of addressing climate change issues head-on. The implications of warming are becoming increasingly evident, threatening the delicate balance of the Arctic ecosystems and exposing them to further risks.

As illustrated by geopolitical tensions, such as President Trump’s threats toward Greenland, melting ice opens new access routes in the Arctic. Shea’s journey culminates on the Norwegian-Russian border, where migrants traverse dangerous icy terrains seeking refuge, reminding readers of the interconnectedness of our world.

Elle Hunt is a writer based in Norwich, UK.