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  • The Impossible First

  • Written by: Colin O'Brady
  • Narrated by: Colin O'Brady
  • Length: 8 hrs and 38 mins
  • 4.6 out of 5 stars (90 ratings)

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The Impossible First

Written by: Colin O'Brady
Narrated by: Colin O'Brady
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Publisher's Summary

Colin O’Brady’s awe-inspiring, New York Times best-selling memoir recounting his recovery from a tragic accident and his record-setting 932-mile solo crossing of Antarctica is a “jaw-dropping tale of passion and perseverance” (Angela Duckworth, New York Times best-selling author of Grit).

Prior to December 2018, no individual had ever crossed the landmass of Antarctica alone, without support and completely human powered. Yet, Colin O’Brady was determined to do just that, even if, 10 years earlier, there was doubt that he’d ever walk again normally. From the depths of a tragic accident, he fought his way back. In a quest to unlock his potential and discover what was possible, he went on to set three mountaineering world records before turning to this historic Antarctic challenge.

O’Brady’s pursuit of a goal that had eluded many others was made even more intense by a head-to-head battle that emerged with British polar explorer Captain Louis Rudd - also striving to be “the first”. Enduring Antarctica’s sub-zero temperatures and pulling a sled that initially weighed 375 pounds - in complete isolation and through a succession of whiteouts, storms, and a series of near disasters - O’Brady persevered.

Alone with his thoughts for nearly two months in the vastness of the frozen continent - gripped by fear and doubt - he reflected on his past, seeking courage and inspiration in the relationships and experiences that had shaped his life.

“Incredibly engaging and well-written” (The Wall Street Journal) - and set against the backdrop of some of the most extreme environments on earth, from Mt. Everest to Antarctica - this is “an unforgettable memoir of perseverance, survival, daring to dream big, and showing the world how to make the impossible possible” (Booklist, starred review).

©2020 Colin O'Brady (P)2020 Simon & Schuster Audio
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What listeners say about The Impossible First

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  • Overall
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Good bit of inspiration

good book though I would have liked to hear more about the other endurance feats as opposed to fundraising and relationships. good book overall, worth checking out.

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Inspiring

Absolutely inspiring story. The book was incredible and exceeded my expectations. Colon O’Brady is one bad ass!!

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    5 out of 5 stars
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Just Awesome!

Just Awesome Start to Finish!
A Story from the heart told with love and enthusiasm!
Very inspiring!!

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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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Very inspiring

Very much enjoyed the openness and personal account of the struggle leading to triumph. Nicely written and kept me engaged. Only little thing that bugged me was the narrator’s pronunciation of Antarctica. He kept saying “Anartica” and it was a annoying. That’s all lol everything else was great. Hope that doesn’t bug you now that I mentioned it.

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Lovely

My mom and I wondered “what on earth could someone write about a whole book on being alone pulling a sled?” And yet Colin’s story of strength exploration and personal achievement that brought him to this passage was a lovely read!!

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amazing!

an incredible story about manifestating the life you want by determination and perseverance. highly recommend even if you've read the 12 hour walk

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so much ego

This guy is too full of himself, and as stated by nat geo, clearly exaggerates his accomplishments. It was painful to get through this book. Really hoped for more after seeing some of his podcast appearances.

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Not my cup of tea

Didn't like the narration and the style of writing left something to be desired.

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