Antarcticness: inspirations and imaginaries

Abstract

Arctic approaches. It is understandable, however, that the short length requires some compromises in content, and the book still fulfils its role, often signposting to topics dealt with only briefly so that engaged readers can delve further. The authors begin their concluding paragraph by saying ‘distinguishing between global geopolitical dynamics and local regional realities in the Arctic is crucial. We need to be wary of assuming that the Arctic is a singular region’ (142), and in this they have fulfilled what they set out to do. No reader could finish this book and remain unaware of the plurality and complexity of the Arctic. This book will be of significant use to students and publics new to the Arctic. The authors have achieved exactly what is suggested by the title: a short but detailed introduction to the Arctic. Accessible and concise but comprehensive, tackling both physical and human Arctic worlds, The Arctic is a strong and necessary addition to the Very Short Introduction series.