From Library Journal
The controversial Messner, revered by some as the spiritual leader of mountaineering and denounced by others as a macho peak-bagger, chronicles his extraordinary 1980 solo climb of the world's tallest mountain. Messner's philosophy dictates that he climb without the aid of oxygen and unencumbered by the people and equipment of large-scale expeditions; he carries only a tent, camera, some climbing equipment, and food. Climbing from the Tibetan side, Messner provides intriguing observations of that mysterious region. He also includes fascinating stories of the climbers who preceded him. Messner presents selections from the diary of his American girlfriend, who accompanied him to base camp. Messner's reflections, coupled with those entries, show Messner to be egotistical and self-centered, perhaps the very characteristics that make him such a determined, ambitious, and great climber. Highly recommended for adult as well as YA collections.- Melinda Stivers Leach, Precision Editorial Svces., Boulder, Col.Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.


From Book News, Inc.
Messner's own version, in an awkward first-person-present, of his historic 1980 climb, a spiritual exploration as well as physical journey. As interesting as the peaks of the Himalayas is his account of the beleaguered indigenous people and culture of Tibet. With many color and b&w photographs. Annotation copyright Book News, Inc. Portland, Or.


Language Notes
Text: English (translation)
Original Language: German

FROM THE PUBLISHER