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stephbond's review
2.0
I've read quite a few Everest and other mountaineering books, and I was interested in a different perspective as I knew Ellis had been there for two years of tragedy.
I found the book an odd read. Ellis is pretty likeable, but it's hard to see why Everest dominates his life, its not for a love of mountaineering or the outdoors as he climbs almost nothing else. And whilst I admire his determination to get there and achieve the goal, he expects others to fund his dream.
What I liked about this book is the reminder that nature has her own ideas about how these things go. I remember the reporting at the time, and it's interesting to read some behind the scene detail.
I also enjoyed his description of hiking in, as I hope to do that one day.
I found the book an odd read. Ellis is pretty likeable, but it's hard to see why Everest dominates his life, its not for a love of mountaineering or the outdoors as he climbs almost nothing else. And whilst I admire his determination to get there and achieve the goal, he expects others to fund his dream.
What I liked about this book is the reminder that nature has her own ideas about how these things go. I remember the reporting at the time, and it's interesting to read some behind the scene detail.
I also enjoyed his description of hiking in, as I hope to do that one day.
tonyfrobisher's review
5.0
Breathless writing of a breathtaking journey
For years I was held by the allure of Everest. I even trekked to stand on top of Kala Patthar at 5,545m - above Everest base camp, the Khumbu glacier and opposite Everest itself. But then I lost all interest and turned to other pursuits. Yet this book intrigued me and felt the urge to read Ellis' compelling story. And I am so happy I did.
A wonderful, uplifting and inspiring story of endeavour, adventure, tragedy and dogged determination. Ellis reminded me that a summit is but a moment. It is the climb that precedes that is all the more important and worthwhile. My admiration for those who aspire to climb Everest or any peak has been rekindled. As has my determination to persue my own life goals.
Read this book.
For years I was held by the allure of Everest. I even trekked to stand on top of Kala Patthar at 5,545m - above Everest base camp, the Khumbu glacier and opposite Everest itself. But then I lost all interest and turned to other pursuits. Yet this book intrigued me and felt the urge to read Ellis' compelling story. And I am so happy I did.
A wonderful, uplifting and inspiring story of endeavour, adventure, tragedy and dogged determination. Ellis reminded me that a summit is but a moment. It is the climb that precedes that is all the more important and worthwhile. My admiration for those who aspire to climb Everest or any peak has been rekindled. As has my determination to persue my own life goals.
Read this book.
hazelrayson's review
5.0
Simply outstanding!
Ellis gives a true and honest account of the dangers of the most dangerous mountain in the world. While getting to the summit is the ultimate goal, the journey and what you learn along the way can be just as important. I hope one day you can try again Ellis, you now have some of the most valuable experience under your belt. I felt like I was with you every single moment on that mountain. Such a great read. Would highly recommend.
Ellis gives a true and honest account of the dangers of the most dangerous mountain in the world. While getting to the summit is the ultimate goal, the journey and what you learn along the way can be just as important. I hope one day you can try again Ellis, you now have some of the most valuable experience under your belt. I felt like I was with you every single moment on that mountain. Such a great read. Would highly recommend.
annc's review
5.0
I’ve had this book on my Kindle since March but hadn’t got around to reading it yet, but as I’m attending a book tour by the author soon I thought I’d better get it in beforehand and boy am I glad I did. WOW what a fantastic read. I’ve read this in one sitting today completely gripped by it. As a big fan of all things Everest and having been to Base Camp myself and visited Tibet too not to mention three tips to Kathmandu it was brilliant to be able to picture some of the places he mentions but even if you’ve never left your couch this is an excellent read. Written from the heart it’s a warts and all account of his life, his loves and his dream to stand on the top of Everest and everything he had to do to try to achieve that not just once but twice
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