Try Ronald Huntford's biographies. His books about Amundsen/Scott and Shackleton are also worthwhile. Such an amazing period.

In summary, Shackleton and Nansen are admirable for courage an endurance. But Amundsen is far ahead of them all in competence, and that is what counts.

And then you can also try "The worst journey in the world" by Ansley Cherry-Garrard. An expedition in darkness...