Sir Ernest Shackleton was a British explorer. Although he is a well-
known hero of polar exploration, he is famous for his failures rather
than his successes. On Shackleton's first trip to Antarctica, he was
declared ill and sent home. His next trip was an attempt to be the first
to the South Pole. Unfortunately, he had to turn around just short of his
goal in order to save his men. His third and most famous trip to
Antarctica was interrupted as his ship was trapped and slowly crushed
in the ice. However, this great leader managed to return all his men
home safely.
Which statement best describes the author's purpose?
A. To explain how people's failures make them stronger
B. To persuade readers to learn more about this hero
C. To inspire readers to explore Antarctica for themselves
D. To inform readers about the life of a famous person