This is a non fiction book by Hampton Sides. It's the story of the USS Jeannette, which attempted to sail to the north pole in 1879 (yeah, they actually thought you could sail to the north pole at this time). It's really well written and the story is amazing. If you're a fan of non fiction (and even if you aren't), give this novel a try. One of the best books I've read in a while. There's a lot of other interesting historical events and people (like Thomas Edison) woven into the story that makes it all the more enjoyable.