This Cold Heaven: Seven Seasons in Greenland : Book Review

Gretel Ehrlich's "This Cold Heaven: Seven Seasons in Greenland" takes readers on an unforgettable journey through the vast and awe-inspiring landscape of Greenland. As a seasoned writer and traveler, Ehrlich brings a unique perspective to this remote and mysterious land, immersing herself in its culture, history, and natural beauty.

What sets this book apart is Ehrlich's ability to seamlessly blend her personal experiences with extensive research, creating a narrative that is not only informative but also deeply moving. She delves into the rich history of Greenland, exploring the lives of both the indigenous Inuit people and the Norse settlers. Through their stories, she sheds light on the challenges they faced and the remarkable resilience they displayed in the face of a harsh environment.

A highlight of the book is Ehrlich's remarkable gift for capturing the breathtaking landscapes she encounters during her seven seasons in Greenland. Her vivid and poetic descriptions of icebergs, glaciers, and the ever-changing Arctic weather transport readers to this distant world. The reader can truly feel the sense of awe and wonder that Ehrlich herself experienced, making them feel as though they are right there alongside her.

Beyond the physical landscapes, Ehrlich delves into the spiritual and cultural aspects of Greenlandic life. Through conversations with local residents, she uncovers the deep connection that the Inuit people have with the natural world and the ecological challenges they face due to climate change and globalization. These insights add another layer of depth and understanding to the narrative.

In conclusion, "This Cold Heaven" is a captivating and thought-provoking book that offers a fresh perspective on Greenland. Ehrlich's lyrical writing style and extensive research make for a compelling and immersive reading experience. Whether you have a penchant for travel writing, Arctic exploration, or simply want to delve into the fragile yet fascinating world of Greenland, this book is an absolute must-read.

What are readers saying?

The reception of Gretel Ehrlich's book, This Cold Heaven, has been a topic of debate among readers. Some individuals commended Ehrlich's poetic and expressive writing style, noting her skill in capturing the Arctic landscape's beauty and harshness. They found her vibrant descriptions of nature to be captivating and immersive. Additionally, many readers appreciated the book's ability to shed light on the indigenous cultures of the region, offering thought-provoking insights.

However, other readers found the book to lack a coherent narrative, making it challenging to follow. They observed Ehrlich's tendency to jump between topics without sufficient context or connection, which hindered their engagement and understanding of the author's intended message.

Regarding content, some readers found the exploration of climate change and its impact on the Arctic enlightening and persuasive. Ehrlich's observations on the changing environment were considered eye-opening. Conversely, others felt that the book heavily emphasized personal anecdotes and reflections, diverting attention from a broader examination of the topic.

Notably, readers were particularly drawn to the author's firsthand experiences and encounters with Arctic locals. They praised the authentic and intimate portrayals of individuals she met, as well as the cultural and historical insights shared. These encounters added depth and richness to the narrative, enhancing the reading experience for those reviewers.

Overall, opinions on This Cold Heaven were divided among readers. While some admired Ehrlich's vivid writing style and her ability to illuminate the Arctic world, others were dissatisfied with the lack of cohesion and focus in the book. If you enjoy immersive nature writing and have an interest in learning about the Arctic and its people, this book may be worth exploring. However, individuals seeking more structured narratives or a deeper examination of climate change may find this book less satisfying.

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