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

Most people have heard of the Iditarod, the annual sled dog race in Alaska, but fewer may realize its origins. In 1925 a diphtheria outbreak threatened to decimate the population of Nome, especially the children. The only way to get a fresh supply of serum to the ice-bound town was by a relay of dog sled teams. The drivers, the doctors, the dogs, and the territory itself make for an exciting narrative, enhanced by Barrett Whitener's reading. There isn't much conversation, so he must rely on pace, expression, and clear diction. You can hear affection and admiration for the men and animals involved; the description of crossing treacherous ice flows is riveting. Have a map handy! J.B.G. (c) AudioFile 2003, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC 03/JAN 04]