This World Book Day, 23 April 2025, we turn our attention to a unique and often overlooked literary treasure—publications born from the icy frontiers of the South African National Antarctic Programme (SANAP). Through the efforts of the Antarctic Legacy of South Africa (ALSA), these works document the human, scientific, and environmental narratives of South Africa’s presence in Antarctica and the sub-Antarctic islands. From personal diaries and expedition chronicles to scientific compilations and historical retrospectives, these books capture not just data, but the spirit of exploration and endurance that defines polar research.
The ALSA collection serves not only as scientific publications but as a cultural and educational bridge, making the stories of South African polar explorers, researchers, and support teams accessible to the public. Books like; “Marionthroughthelens”, “Over the Horison”, “Antinktika”, and “Pains form the character” offer readers a glimpse into life in extreme environments, reminding us of the global importance of polar science in understanding climate change and biodiversity. On this World Book Day, we celebrate these remarkable contributions and encourage readers to explore the frosty edge of our world—through pages rich with purpose and discovery.
Theme for World Book Day 2025: “The role of literature in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)”
A classroom with books is a gateway to a world without boundaries
Let books be your best companion on the road to wisdom.
Books are timeless bridges between knowledge and imagination.
This World Book Day, turn a page and ignite a thought.