Ice Country is the story of Rusty, a 15-year-old boy who joins the crew of a sailing adventure to the Arctic in the summer of 1950. The crew faces many perils, including violent storms, damaging icebergs and polar bears. While struggling to test new skills against a hostile environment, Rusty struggles inwardly to gain acceptance. The historical novel is based on actual Schooner Bowdoin expeditions with Explorer Donald B. MacMillan.