tomcreanbook.com
Tom
Crean
The Extraordinary Life of an Irish Hero
Born into poverty in Annascaul, County Kerry in 1877, Tom Crean joined the Royal Navy at 16 and went on to become one of the greatest Antarctic explorers in history — serving on three expeditions and saving the lives of 29 colleagues through four acts of remarkable heroism. Here on our website, you will discover the only fully-referenced Tom Crean book that provides readers with a full and factual picture of his amazing story.
Ireland's Greatest Unheralded Hero
Tom Crean was born on 16 February 1877 in the townland of Gortacurraun, near Annascaul in County Kerry, Ireland. He joined the Royal Navy in 1893 at the age of 16 and went on to serve on three of history's most celebrated Antarctic expeditions.
Despite performing four separate acts of extraordinary heroism — including a solo 18-mile march across the Antarctic ice to save a dying colleague — Crean's story was largely lost to history for decades. Tim Foley's research has helped change that.
The Books
Crean: The Extraordinary Life of an Irish Hero
The most thoroughly researched account of Tom Crean ever published. Co-author of the Dictionary of Irish Biography entry. Foreword by Julian Evans, grandson of the man whose life Crean saved.
Tom The Mighty Explorer
A 135-page full-colour illustrated biography for young readers. Available in paperback, Kindle, Apple iBooks and the only children's audiobook on Tom Crean — narrated by Michael Ryan.
What Readers Are Saying
From Kerry to California — Tom Crean's story is reaching readers worldwide.
Published by Merrion Press, this critically acclaimed Tom Crean biography is available in paperback and e-book format
"Tim Foley's beautifully written and well structured account of this true Irish hero is both fascinating and inspiring. A real page-turner."
Amazon · Verified Purchase
"This is the definitive account of Tom Crean's life. The author captures the enigmatic qualities of Tom Crean and this is a book to be treasured."
Amazon · Verified Purchase
"Semi-obsessed with Crean and Shackleton, I devoured your well-researched and written book. Thank you from California."
California, USA
"A carefully documented, well-organized volume that offers the reader a full and gripping history of an unassuming Irishman whose extraordinary deeds lightened the darkest of times with courage and cheerfulness."
Retired Senior Lecturer, Queen's University Belfast
"Absolutely amazing book about Tom Crean. Makes me proud to have Irish DNA. Thank you for writing this amazing book to share with the world!"
Film Producer, USA
"I finished feeling that I had met Crean. Tim Foley is an excellent biographer."
Tom Crean Appreciation Society · 5,700 members
"Fantastic read. Got totally engrossed with it when I got it at Christmas and finished it in less than two days."
Tipperary, Ireland · Bookstore purchase
As Referenced on Dan Snow's History Hit · October 2024
"You can discover more about the life and accomplishments of Tom Crean in Tim Foley's book 'Crean: The Extraordinary Life of an Irish Hero'."
Dan Snow's History Hit — Tom Crean: The Unsung Irish Hero of the Antarctic
From the Blog
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Tim Foley's Research — Recognised by Leading Authorities
Tim's work on Tom Crean has been referenced and featured by some of the most respected institutions and publications in Irish and exploration history