The true story of Oscar, an Arctic husky who had been a sledge dog in Antarctica, is told for readers aged 10 to 12 years. The author, Oscar's long-time master, visits Oscar at the Melbourne zoo as the story begins. He recounts some of his memories of Oscar, including a number of expeditions, and Oscar's fight to remain "king dog" of the sledge team. Oscar leaves the zoo and returns to Antarctica where he sires pups and helps to train the sledge teams. Throughout Oscar's story, the history of the role that dogs have played in the exploration of Antarctica is told. Although dog teams are no longer relied upon for transportation, the courage and skill of dogs is bound tightly in the story of Antarctica. Numerous photographs and illustrations appear throughout the story. A glossary is included, as is a list of other materials on Antarctica for younger readers. (DB)