Into the Ice: Reflections on Antarctica

Into the Ice: Reflections on Antarctica (Allen & Unwin) Alison Lester & Coral Tulloch. Non-Fiction PB RRP $35.00 97817605260

Reviewed by Karen Hendriks

Two of Australia’s most celebrated creatives, Alison Lester and Coral Tulloch, share their profound love for Antarctica in Into the Ice, a stunning journal-style book. This unique work blends inspiring writing with original artwork, highlighting the creative’s personal connection to the continent. Through historical quotes, illustrations, and images, it offers a powerful call to protect this magical, pristine environment.

In this 96-page non-fiction picture book aimed at older readers, Lester and Tulloch present a rich tapestry of writings and artwork, including personal reflections from both author/illustrators, as well as their own sketches, drawings, and photographs. Historic photos and excerpts from diaries and poems are thoughtfully interwoven to explore Antarctica’s history of exploration, the daunting journeys undertaken, the isolation, the icebergs, and the wildlife.

Both Lester and Tulloch are deeply moved by their experiences in Antarctica, and their work skilfully juxtaposes texts from 100 years ago with modern-day observations. This comparison underscores how little Antarctica has changed over time and reveals the profound impact it leaves on all who are fortunate enough to visit.

Lester and Tulloch have taken a unique and distinct approach to telling the story of Antarctica by using the journal format they create for a reader an intimate, personal encounter with the continent. The book highlights the immense challenges faced by explorers, both past and present, and perhaps those yet to come. The sheer isolation of Antarctica and its enduring beauty shine through in every page. I was particularly struck by the depiction of icebergs—vast structures mostly hidden beneath the surface or adrift after breaking off from their frozen birthplace, slowly becoming part of the ocean. The coldness of the environment is almost tangible; it leaps off the page, inviting readers into its chilling embrace.

I love how Tulloch conveys the importance of patience in Antarctica. As she reflects, “I wanted to capture what we were experiencing, but a photograph would have simply shown a scene of glaring white. Instead, I used a timeline and sketched what little I could see, using white squares on a black background to tell the story of the day.”

Lester’s words, on the other hand, evoke emotions so strongly and powerfully: "I was excited and scared at the same time. Excited to be travelling so far, for so long, across some of the wildest oceans on Earth with a team of strangers. I wasn’t the mother, wife, cook anymore—I was the artist."

Into the Ice: Reflections on Antarctica is a picture book that appeals to a wide range of ages. Even preschoolers will enjoy the vivid visuals. Since only some of us will ever get to experience Antarctica firsthand, a book like this is an invaluable tool for learning about this continent. It serves as both an educational resource and a source of pure enjoyment.

This is a unique and compelling book that will captivate readers of all ages.