Michael Smith is an author and journalist who specialises in the history of Polar exploration. He has written books on Polar history for adult audiences and children, lectured extensively and contributed to a wide range of television and radio programmes, newspapers, magazines and websites.

Michael’s first book, An Unsung Hero – Tom Crean Antarctic Survivor (2000) was short-listed for the Banff Mountain Book Festival 2002. His other books are: I Am Just Going Outside – Captain Oates (2002); Sir James Wordie – Polar Crusader (2004); Captain Francis Crozier – Last Man Standing? (2006); Tom Crean – An Illustrated Life (2006) was shortlisted for the Irish Published Book of the Year 2007. He has also written two books for children: Tom Crean – Iceman (2003); Shackleton – The Boss (2004).

Michael is regular public speaker on Polar history and has given talks at many leading venues, including:
MERSEYSIDE MARITIME MUSEUM, Liverpool;
NATIONAL MARITIME MUSEUM CORNWALL, Falmouth;
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF IRELAND, Dublin;
QUEENS UNIVERSITY, Belfast; 
ROYAL GEOGRAPHICAL SOCIETY, London;
SCOTT POLAR RESEARCH INSTITUTE, Cambridge;
UNIVERSITY COLLEGE CORK, Cork.

Michael is a regular visitor to schools and libraries and has frequently participated in the annual Children's Book Festival, Ireland and other events aimed at younger readers.

Michael began writing books in the late 1990s after more than 30 years as an award-winning journalist covering business and political issues. His posts included: Industrial Editor and Political Correspondent, The Guardian; City Editor, Evening Standard; Business Editor, The Observer.