This absorbing historical novel, sure to appeal to those interested in Arctic exploration, mixes up details of the real-life adventures of Robert Peary and Frederick Cook with an invented family history. Johnston's tale revolves around young Devlin Stead, and his growing involvement with the wily Dr. Cook and his circle in New York City. A Newfoundlander with some experience in the ice, Johnston is especially good at invoking the icy expanses of Greenland and the Canadian Arctic. Put this book on your shelf alongside Andrea Barrett's Voyage of the Narwhal.  (ARC127, $15.95)