Community Reviews

Rating(3.9 / 5.0, 100 votes)
5 stars
32(32%)
4 stars
28(28%)
3 stars
40(40%)
2 stars
0(0%)
1 stars
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100 reviews
July 14,2025
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Eventually, I gave up on this book. I was truly only interested in reading it because I have more or less read all of Krakauer's work and have greatly enjoyed them. Sadly for me, I simply felt no connection between these pieces and myself. As others have said, you really have to have knowledge of climbing to understand why some of these pieces are significant. He presents an interesting perspective on the climbing world. However, without being able to offer the depth that he can in his traditional books, something is always lacking in the stories. Obviously, if you were reading the articles in a magazine, such as a climbing magazine, then they will likely be informative. But if you want to read about mountaineering and Jon Krakauer, reading "Into Thin Air" is a better choice. It provides more depth and a clearer vision about the realities of climbing that I believe all of these articles combined could never achieve.

July 14,2025
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Jon Krakauer makes it astonishingly effortless to become an armchair adventurer!

He transports you directly to the perilous crevasses and towering seracs. You can vividly feel the savage brutality of the wind as it lashes against you.

The disheartened attempts of losing a summit are also brought to life, making you experience the disappointment and frustration along with the climbers.

This book is truly a gem, filled with a plethora of short stories that are both engaging and captivating.

It is an easy read that allows you to embark on thrilling adventures from the comfort of your own chair.

Whether you are a seasoned adventurer or simply someone with a thirst for excitement, this book is sure to satisfy your cravings.

So, sit back, relax, and let Jon Krakauer take you on a journey you will never forget.
July 14,2025
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I read the first three or four stories in the book. At first, I was quite interested, but as I continued, I gradually got bored.

Finally, I couldn't stand it anymore and returned the book to the library. This was really a disappointment for me, because I have always loved all of the author's other books.

I think the main reason for my boredom was that the stories seemed too dated. They had a very definite 80s feel to them, as if they were written a long time ago and had not kept up with the times.

The language, the settings, and the characters all seemed a bit old-fashioned. It made me feel that I was reading something that was not relevant to my current life.

However, I still respect the author's work and will continue to read his other books in the future. Maybe this was just a one-time miss for me.
July 14,2025
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Christmas gift from my parents. It was on my wish list after reading "Into The Wild" and "Into Thin Air".

This book had its pros and cons. On one hand, it did make me happy as my obsession lies solely in reading about ventures rather than actually venturing myself. It provided some interesting insights into the world of mountaineering.

However, on the other hand, it did not mesmerize me in the way that "Into The Wild" and "Into Thin Air" did. I had expected to read more about the reasoning and the personality/history behind the risk-taking involved with mountaineering. Instead, it was more of a collection of stories, and there were too many numbers that I could have easily looked up on Wikipedia.

Overall, I still like Krakauer's writing, especially when he is being subjective. His personal perspectives and experiences add depth and authenticity to his work. I just wish this particular book had delved deeper into the aspects that I was most interested in.
July 14,2025
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A beautiful collection of stories unfolds within the pages of this book, delving into the captivating world of mountains, the people who are drawn to them, and their remarkable dreams and adventures. It offers a fascinating exploration of various activities that I previously knew very little about. Bouldering, with its intense focus and physical challenges, is brought to life in a vivid and engaging way. The description of glacier flying, soaring through the sky above the majestic glaciers, is truly breathtaking. And canyoneering, with its elements of excitement and discovery as one descends through narrow canyons, is equally enticing. The author has done an excellent job of introducing these activities, making them accessible and interesting to readers like me who may not have had prior knowledge or experience. It has opened my eyes to a whole new world of possibilities and adventures in the mountains.

July 14,2025
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After the wonderful reading of "Krakauer essential" in its recent Spanish publication, I embark on the rereading of "Dreams of the Eiger", another splendid collection of articles by Krakauer. Fascinating tales about emblematic alpinists and others unknown (at least to me); about emblematic mountains such as Mont Blanc, the Eiger or K2; about block climbing, on ice; about canyoning in almost unknown canyons; about the risky trips of the small plane pilots to land on glaciers near McKinley; about Krakauer's own youthful dream of climbing to the Devil's Thumb in Alaska, and his adventure to achieve this dream.... In short, page after page of splendid mountain literature and, at the bottom, literature about the human condition.

This collection truly offers a diverse range of stories that not only showcase the beauty and danger of the mountains but also delve deep into the minds and souls of those who dare to challenge them. Krakauer's writing is so vivid and engaging that it makes you feel as if you are right there with the climbers, experiencing their joys, fears, and triumphs. It's not just about the physical act of climbing but also about the emotional and psychological journey that comes with it. Whether you are an avid climber or simply someone who loves a good adventure story, "Dreams of the Eiger" is definitely a must-read.

July 14,2025
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This is a compilation of articles and short stories penned and released by Jon Krakauer during the 1980s. His vivid portrayals of the mountains and the climbing escapades that he and others have endured are truly captivating. I thoroughly relished reading about these adventures while safely ensconced in my home. It offers an interesting and enjoyable read for anyone with an inclination to delve into the mind of a climber. Krakauer's detailed accounts bring the险峻 peaks and the challenges faced during the climbs to life. One can almost feel the adrenaline rush and the sense of accomplishment that comes with reaching the summit. Whether you are an aspiring climber or simply someone who enjoys a good adventure story, these works are sure to engage and inspire you.

July 14,2025
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Some of the stories were really exciting,

captivating my imagination and making my heart race. They were filled with thrilling adventures and unexpected twists that kept me on the edge of my seat.

However, some of them bored me slightly. Maybe it was because the subject matter didn't resonate with me as much, or perhaps the pacing was a bit slow in those particular sections.

Regardless of that, I still admire the unique character of Krakauer’s writing. His words have a power and authenticity that draw the reader in and make them feel as if they are right there with the characters.

I hope I get to experience more of his works in the future. I'm eager to see what other stories he has to tell and how he will continue to develop his writing style.

I have a feeling that each new book will be just as engaging and thought-provoking as the ones I've already read.
July 14,2025
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Mountains bein’ climbed and guys bein’ dudes!

It's an exciting scene as mountains are being conquered by brave individuals. These guys, they're not just ordinary fellows, but true dudes with a sense of adventure and a thirst for challenge.

They strap on their climbing gear, ready to face the steep slopes and unpredictable terrains. With each step, they push themselves to the limit, testing their strength, skill, and determination.

The mountains stand tall and majestic, offering a breathtaking backdrop to their heroic endeavors. As they ascend, they soak in the beauty of nature, feeling a sense of awe and wonder.

Whether it's a solo climb or a team effort, these dudes are united by their passion for mountaineering. They support each other, share tips and tricks, and celebrate their achievements together.

Mountains bein’ climbed and guys bein’ dudes – it's a story of courage, perseverance, and the pursuit of the impossible.
July 14,2025
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As always, I have a deep love for Jon Krakauer. Krakauer, even at his worst, is still far superior to 95% of the journalists and writers in the field.

I had the opportunity to read this book while I was traveling in Switzerland and witnessed the majestic Eiger with my own eyes. This experience undoubtedly enhanced my understanding of the dreamy romance Krakauer harbors towards climbing the largest mountains.

It is evident that this was an early work of his, and he has significantly refined his writing skills since then. His groupie-like, fan-girl attitude towards climbers in this book is something that he almost completely managed to control by the time he penned Into Thin Air.

Due to his excessive enthusiasm, I would rate this book as one of my least favorite among Krakauer's works. However, it is still completely worth reading, as it provides a fascinating glimpse into an early example of his writing. Moreover, the short story format makes it a pleasant and quick read during a vacation.

July 14,2025
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Jon Krakauer is a renowned author who has written a series of captivating articles and essays on various mountaineering topics and stories. His works are a treasure trove for those interested in the world of alpinism.

Krakauer's writing style is remarkable as he has the ability to vividly bring his subjects to life. He not only delves into the rich history and fascinating folklore of mountaineering but also shares personal and relatable stories.

In this collection, there are 12 excellent pieces. From the light-hearted and humorous 'On Being Tentbound' to the sobering and eye-opening account of 'A Bad Summer on K2', and the introspective 'The Devils Thumb', each article offers a unique perspective.

Whether you are eager to explore the stranger and lesser-known aspects of mountaineering or simply in search of a great read, this book is well worth your time. It will transport you to the thrilling and often dangerous world of alpinism, leaving you with a deeper understanding and appreciation for this challenging pursuit.
July 14,2025
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Sobre homens e montanhas is a collection of texts about the world of climbing. It is written in a very fluent and humorous way, yet without losing depth. Krakauer wrote about climbing, but not just for climbers. The expositions on the lives of the athletes, their motivations and insecurities give the book a very rich anthropological slant, which elevates the reading beyond a mere exposition of topics associated with the sport.


Moreover, although the texts revolve around the same theme, it is not a monotonous book. Krakauer made a very well-balanced mixture of writings about specific modalities and their creators/practitioners, great attempts at summit conquests - and their misfortunes -, accounts of his own expeditions - which gives an intimate tone to the book - and even a curious description of the Alaskan aerial taxi market that developed solely to serve climbers seeking to conquer the peaks of the region.


It is a book that I can see myself rereading its texts in the future. It offers a unique perspective on the world of climbing, one that combines adventure, human nature, and the pursuit of the impossible. Whether you are a climber or not, this book is sure to captivate and inspire you.

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