The discovery of slowness

Nadolny's masterpiece, a huge critical and commercial success in Germany and across Europe, derives from the life of one of the most fascinating explorers of the 19th century - Sir John Franklin - who, amongst other achievements, paved the way for the discovery of the Northwest passage, the sea-going rout between Europe to the Pacific. By means of Nadolny's acute reading of history and his storytelling prowess, the reader accepts the improbability of this misfit's development from awkward schoolboy to expedition leader, governor of Tasmania and ultimately, icon of adventure. But Nadolny has a unique take on character, plot and time - the many incidents of frenzied enterprise and murderous frustration are counterpointed against moments of stillness, slowness and perception, creating a fluid, provocative, suspenseful but constantly surprising read.