Kirsti's Reviews > The Cruelest Miles: The Heroic Story of Dogs and Men in a Race Against an Epidemic

An enthralling and informative read regarding a story I've only ever really seen in the animated film, Balto. I knew just as general knowledge that there was more to the story, but hadn't been given the opportunity to find out more until today. I really am awful with these kinds of books; only certain parts of history appeal to me, lessened if there are no animals involved. I usually struggle a bit even then, but this book pushed me past my apprehensions.

I was particularly fascinated by the back history of Alaska, the history of dog sledding, the origin of the word mush and the snippet facts, such as 'Eskimo' not having the same negative connotations in Alaska. I have no idea of the validity of this fact, but this book claims it to be so. I also enjoyed the lack of focus on Balto, a deserved hero but one dog in many teams to have made the journey. It was the spirit of the entire effort in the face of this enormous tragedy.

I loved this book, for all I learned from it. I read it in one sitting, and for this kind of book that's impressive for me! Highly recommended.