The Cruelest Miles

The Heroic Story of Dogs and Men in a Race Against an Epidemic

The year is 1925. It is sixty degrees below zero. The wind sweeps tons of snow over the deep-frozen Alaskan landscape. The nearest railhead is seven hundred miles away. Airplanes cannot fly. The way to Nome is blocked by a treacherous frozen sound, an icebound port, and mountains to the west. But there is a diphtheria epidemic in Nome. The children need serum from the outside world if they are to survive. Their only hope is a few chosen Eskimo drivers and their teams of dogs, who must make a relay race across the wilderness if the serum is to get to Nome in time. The heroism and stamina of the men and their dogs can only be called legendary. Now, their story can be told.©2003 Gay Salisbury and Laney Salisbury; (P)2003 Random House, Inc. Random House Audio, a division of Randhom House Inc.

Stunning story.

I loved the description of the dogs and mushers. Felt like I was right there with them!

Fascinating, true tale of triumph

This was a riveting story of triumph over seemingly impossible circumstances. The Salisburies tell a great story. I read this because Elaine Salisbury's "Provenance" was such a compelling, well-written, true-life tale that read like a thriller. I will never look at art the same way again. I highly recommend both books.

An amazing story

This is a great true story of brave men and dogs. I enjoyed the narrator as much as the book. It was very captivating the whole way through.

Just a Story...

I enjoyed this book, truly did, but up to a point. The story is good and has to be told. Certainly the epidemic was terrible and the actions of the people were very courageous, with lots of sacrifices made. And I even loved the way bonds were formed between man and dog. However, this was just an historical narration. There were no interactions between the people involved, just a "person telling a story." When I read or listen to a book, I like to get into the characters involved, to feel what they are feeling, to feel the excitement or anger, or explore other emotions. Sadly this book is lacking in that area. The narrator's voice was clear and concise, but lacking in emotion. If you enjoy this type of narration, then you will very likely enjoy this book. But for me personally, I found my mind wandering at times, and can only give it a 3.

Read This Book!

"The Cruelest Miles" is a remarkable book about the human spirit and the bond between animals and their human companions. Highly recommended for anyone who loves dogs or stories of adventure and overcoming adversity. Very entertaining and extremely engaging.