Andrée and His Balloon

"Andrée and His Balloon" by Henri Lachambre, along with Alexis Machuron, is a historical account that follows Salomon Andrée's daring late 19th-century attempt to reach the North Pole by balloon. The story commences with the launch of the expedition on July 11, 1897, from Spitzbergen, spotlighting Andrée and his crew, Strindberg and Fraenkel, as they begin this adventure. The narrative captures a spirit of enthusiasm mixed with nervousness as they journey toward the North Pole, while also emphasizing the public's intense interest in the mission and the explorers' destinies. The initial build up reveals challenges in the preparations, failed ascents, and the overall spirit of adventure, innovation, and exploration.