Ice Station Zebra
Ice Station Zebra
Book Brief
Beta254
Novel • Fiction
Arctic Circle • 1960s
1980
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Ice Station Zebra by Alistair MacLean follows a British meteorologist who joins a U.S. nuclear submarine mission to rescue survivors from a drifting Arctic ice station. As they navigate the treacherous environment, the crew faces extreme conditions and uncover hidden dangers that test their survival skills and uncover an unexpected twist.
Suspenseful
Mysterious
Adventurous
Dark
Reviews & Readership
20,872 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Ice Station Zebra by Alistair MacLean offers a thrilling, suspenseful narrative with a gripping Arctic setting. The strong, atmospheric descriptions keep readers engaged. However, some critiques point to underdeveloped characters and a complex plot that can be confusing. Despite these flaws, the fast-paced action and unexpected twists make it a compelling read.
Who Should Read Ice Station Zebra?
Readers who enjoy Ice Station Zebra by Alistair MacLean often appreciate high-stakes thrillers with espionage elements. Fans of The Hunt for Red October by Tom Clancy or The Spy Who Came in from the Cold by John le Carré will likely be drawn to MacLean's intense Arctic adventure and intricate plot.
20,872 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Ice Station Zebra was inspired by a real-life Cold War incident involving a lost satellite and espionage suspicions, although Alistair MacLean fictionalized many aspects for dramatic effect.
The novel contributed to Alistair MacLean's reputation as a master of adventure and suspense, becoming one of his best-known works and leading to a film adaptation in 1968 starring Rock Hudson and Ernest Borgnine.
Subscribe to discover more Fun Facts!
While typically thought of as a thriller novelist, Ice Station Zebra showcases MacLean's detailed maritime and arctic survival knowledge, rooted in his background as a Royal Navy sailor during World War II.
Subscribe to discover more Fun Facts!
254
Novel • Fiction
Arctic Circle • 1960s
1980
Adult
18+ years
We’re just getting started
Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!