Toiling away behind his computer on a balmy July day, this GalleyCat editor urges his readers to head to Antarctica. Author and explorer Robert Swan is leading the 2041 International Antarctic Treaty Expedition to that frozen land in November, bringing along eighty teachers, students, corporate leaders, and environmental experts.

To celebrate the release of Swan's new book, "Antarctica 2041: My Quest to Save the Earth's Last Wilderness," teachers can write an essay and win a spot in that icy cold expedition.

Here are the directions: "READ this advanced excerpt from Antarctica 2041 to learn why 2041 is such a crucial year in the survival of Antarctica and our planet. WRITE a compelling essay, in 500 words-or-less, titled: 'Why I want to visit Antarctica this November, and how I plan to bring the skills I learn back to my classroom.'"