The Cruelest Miles

The Heroic Story of Dogs and Men in a Race Against an Epidemic

By: Gay Salisbury, Laney Salisbury

Narrated by: Barrett Whitener

Length: 9 hrs and 35 mins

Publisher's summary

The year is 1925. It is sixty degrees below zero. The wind sweeps tons of snow over the deep-frozen Alaskan landscape. The nearest railhead is seven hundred miles away. Airplanes cannot fly. The way to Nome is blocked by a treacherous frozen sound, an icebound port, and mountains to the west. But there is a diphtheria epidemic in Nome. The children need serum from the outside world if they are to survive. Their only hope is a few chosen Eskimo drivers and their teams of dogs, who must make a relay race across the wilderness if the serum is to get to Nome in time. The heroism and stamina of the men and their dogs can only be called legendary. Now, their story can be told.

©2003 Gay Salisbury and Laney Salisbury (P)2003 Books On Tape, Inc.

Critic reviews

"This is an elegantly written book, inspiring tremendous respect for the hardy mushers and their canine partners." (Publishers Weekly)
"The Salisburys have written an amazing story of endurance and courage." (Booklist)
"Margot Dionne delivers this mind-numbing experience in a calm voice, allowing the words to convey the terror and agony that characterized the journey." (AudioFile)

Now You Know The Rest Of The Story!

The story is one I read about in a short article in a high school science book. So many decisions needed to be made to save Nome from Diphtheria. What brave men and DOGS to fight Alaska’s elements!

The reader had a very monotonous about voice making what could have been exciting parts of the book boring.

Just started listening- looking forward to more!

I've listened to 90 min. of this title, and can already say that it's going to be one of my favorite listens so far.
The story and Alaska's scenery are wonderfully worded, and all is beautifully narrated.
Keep you posted!

Amazing true story and great read! Entertaining and inspirational!

This may have been the most enjoyable nonfiction book I have read other than the Bible. Not only did it tell the story of Nome’s Great Mercy race, but gave much detail about each person and historical event connected with the story. I was fascinated to learn some of the challenges of the Alaskan climate and the ways the native people have survived for thousands of years. Due honor was also given to those who sacrificed much to save many lives.
I found it hard to stop listening to this book and was a bit sad when it was finished.

It shows the true good in man and dog

Having worked in the field with dogs for over 20 years. Deployed to Ground Zero, Hurricanes Katrina and Ike, and countless smaller missions by FEMA as a K9 Search Specialist. I have not come across a better book that touches on the great work that can be done when a working dog and handler develop a partnership. It also reminds us of how humble truly good people are and how they and their dogs are willing to risk their lives to help others, just because they want to help.
Tony Z

Excellent story even for non dog lovers

A truly fantastic story. Was educational, entertaining and at times emotional. I found myself with tears in my eyes at several points. Amazing story.

Excellent presentation! Life-changing story

This should be required reading for all elementary or junior high students. This story gives not only historical perspective, but political and medical challenges of the times.

I will definitely listen to it again!

Having read the book I couldn’t wait to listen on audible. I was not disappointed!!

amazing story and book

Everything about this book was amazing. The people throughout this story are what true heroes look like, they sacraficed so much and put everything on the line for others. The authors did an amazing job of keeping the book very informative while keeping it intriguing, the narrator did an amazing job as well, it seemed as if the story was being told by the legends it was written about. Strongly recommend to everyone and I've already recommended it to some friends.

Excellent Read!

Great story of the history of Nome and dog sledding. Being from Nome now, it really gives me a better understanding and appreciation of the people, culture and history of the town.

Going back for a second listen

This is the best nonfiction story I have encountered. I backtracked on a few pages, but the extra attention is rewarding.