This story tells how Stan Paterson became a glaciologist and the author of a standard textbook on the subject and, almost as a sideline, an adventurous mountaineer - or maybe it was the other way around. His career spanned an interesting period. When he began in the fifties of last century, the arctic regions were difficult and expensive to visit--only possible by government sponsored expeditions--now they are a popular holiday destination. His mountaineering exploits were considerable, and are briefly and refreshingly described. His style is quiet and matter-of-fact, with a counterpoint of quiet humour that makes his story delightfully readable.