Community Reviews

Rating(4 / 5.0, 56 votes)
5 stars
17(30%)
4 stars
21(38%)
3 stars
18(32%)
2 stars
0(0%)
1 stars
0(0%)
56 reviews
July 14,2025
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The book provides a remarkable and profound insight into the unwavering determination and single-minded attitude that is absolutely essential for climbing high peaks.

The vivid and descriptive writing of the various conditions encountered on the mountains truly has the power to transport the reader.

I have a passion for non-technical hiking in the mountains, but this book reveals a whole different world. It makes me wonder how people can endure frostbite, broken bones, and even the tragic loss of friends, yet still find the courage to go back.

If you have a penchant for adventure, this book is definitely worth reading. However, it must be noted that all trips seem to have the same set of problems, which is the reason why I can only give it 3 stars.

Perhaps it would be best to dip in and out of this book to fully appreciate its content.
July 14,2025
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This book truly had me on the edge of my seat, completely riveted from start to finish.

Before I began reading, I knew very little or perhaps nothing at all about the climbers and the majestic mountains they conquered. However, the author's descriptions of the various locations and the mountains themselves were extremely evocative. It was as if I could picture myself standing there, in the midst of the snow-capped peaks.

One aspect that could be improved is the number of photos. In my paperback version, there are only a handful of them, and unfortunately, they are quite dark and have not reproduced well. More clear and vivid photos would enhance the reading experience even further.

The detailed descriptions of the climbs, the heart-stopping falls, the painful injuries, and the complex relationships between the men made this book an absolute page-turner. I found myself reading it each night before going to sleep, but it was one of those "just one more chapter" kind of books. Before I knew it, the light was staying on later and later. You could almost smell the snow and feel the cold wind whipping around you as you followed the climbers' adventures.

I have nothing but admiration for these brave climbers and their remarkable achievements. I am so glad that I now know more about their world. This book is well worth reading for anyone with an interest in adventure, mountaineering, or simply a good story.

July 14,2025
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This is an interesting subject indeed. The article provides a very comprehensive and detailed account of the efforts of these adventurers. It delves deep into their experiences and the challenges they faced.

However, there are some aspects that I find quite frustrating. The author has a constant need to wax poetic on the thoughts of dying men. This presumption and the creepiness of these lengthy monologues can be rather off-putting. It makes the reading experience a bit uncomfortable.

Moreover, the nasty swallowing sound that the narrator keeps making also adds to the overall unpleasantness. It distracts from the otherwise engaging content and takes away from the impact of the story.

Despite these drawbacks, the article still has its merits. It offers valuable insights into the world of adventure and the minds of those who dare to take on great challenges. With a few improvements, it could have been an even more captivating read.
July 14,2025
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I always have a great passion for reading true stories related to mountain climbing!


Although I will never attempt it myself, I have the utmost respect for those individuals who possess the drive, stamina, and, most importantly, the willingness to take life-threatening risks.


These brave souls go out into the wild, face numerous challenges, and make a tremendous effort to reach the summit.


Their determination and courage are truly inspiring.


By reading their stories, I can gain a better understanding of the difficulties and rewards that come with mountain climbing.


It also makes me appreciate the beauty and power of nature even more.


Even though I may not be able to experience it firsthand, these stories allow me to vicariously share in their adventures.


Overall, reading about mountain climbing is a fascinating and enriching experience for me.

July 14,2025
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I have no inclination or longing to scale the mighty Everest.

However, this provided a truly captivating and enthralling peek into the psyches and existences of those individuals who do possess such a desire.

It offers an insight into the thoughts, dreams, and aspirations of those who have not only harbored this intense longing but have also taken the bold step to act upon it.

We get to see the determination, the courage, and the unwavering spirit that drives them to undertake such a perilous and challenging adventure.

It makes us wonder about the forces within them that compel them to push beyond their limits and strive for something so extraordinary.

This exploration into the world of Everest climbers is both inspiring and thought-provoking, leaving us with a newfound respect for their audacity and tenacity.

July 14,2025
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Good book - my only objection were the fictionalized parts.

No one truly knows what exactly happened to Tasker and Boardman. However, their deaths were vividly depicted in the book.

Moreover, the author reflects on their "internal" thoughts as they set off, never to be seen again.

This fictionalization blurs the line between fact and fiction.

I firmly believe that the book would have been significantly better had it remained strictly within the realm of facts.

By adding these fictional elements, it undermines the credibility and authenticity of the overall narrative.

Readers who are interested in the true story might be misled or disappointed by the fictionalized portions.

It is essential for historical or factual books to maintain a high level of accuracy and integrity.

Perhaps the author could have found other ways to present the story without crossing this line.

In conclusion, while the book has its merits, the fictionalized parts are a drawback that could have been avoided.

July 14,2025
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A fascinating look at the rock-and-roll Brits of high-altitude climbing reveals their remarkable feats in the Himalayas during the 1970s and 1980s. These daredevil climbers took on incredibly hard routes, pushing the boundaries of what was thought possible. It was a time of adventure and excitement, but also one of great danger.


To thrive on the challenges they faced, one had to be a masochist of sorts. The extreme conditions, the thin air, and the treacherous terrain demanded a level of physical and mental toughness that few possessed. And yet, many of these climbers were willing to take the risk.


Unfortunately, the price they paid was often their lives. The unforgiving nature of the mountains claimed the lives of many of these brave souls, leaving a legacy of courage and determination. Their stories continue to inspire new generations of climbers, who are drawn to the allure of the high-altitude world.

July 14,2025
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I truly liked this book as it provided me with far more detailed information regarding the technical aspects of climbing compared to most mountaineering stories. It delved deep into the nitty-gritty details that are often overlooked in other tales.

However, it was rather strange that the author attributed thoughts and actions to the minds of deceased individuals. I assume the author was attempting to imagine what they were thinking and feeling as they perished while climbing. Of course, we all have a natural curiosity to know such things, but it seems a bit excessive to actually envision those thoughts and incorporate them into the story as if they were an authentic part of the (supposedly non-fiction) narrative.

Moreover, I must confess that I frequently lost track of which mountain was being climbed. Was it Everest? K2? Annapurna? Dunagiri? Or perhaps another one? All of these mountains were featured in the book, with some being climbed more than once. I did, in particular, relish the sections about climbs in the Alps. These days, such climbs are rarely written about. The technical climbing in the Alps is evidently extremely challenging, yet due to the lower altitude compared to the Himalayas, they have received less attention in the past few decades. I suppose there is less glory for the climbers.

Anyhow, if anyone happens to be reading this review and can recommend other excellent mountain climbing tales, please do let me know. I have read a considerable number of them, but I am always on the lookout for more.
July 14,2025
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This is a truly wonderful account that vividly portrays the lives of men who have grown up in the shadow of the British conquest of the world's highest peaks.

It offers great stories about climbs in the majestic Himalaya.

The tales are not only about the physical challenges of scaling these enormous mountains but also about the personal growth and transformation that the climbers experience.

We get a glimpse into their courage, determination, and the sense of adventure that drives them to take on such perilous endeavors.

The author has done an excellent job of bringing these stories to life, making us feel as if we are right there with the climbers, sharing in their triumphs and setbacks.

Whether you are an avid mountaineer or simply someone who enjoys a good adventure story, this article is sure to captivate and inspire you.

It is a must-read for anyone interested in the history and allure of the Himalaya and the remarkable men who have dared to conquer its heights.
July 14,2025
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DNF— Simply not engaging.


DNF, which stands for "Did Not Finish", is a term often used in the gaming community. When a player reaches a point in a game where they simply lose interest or find the experience unengaging, they may choose to DNF. This could be due to a variety of reasons.


Perhaps the gameplay is repetitive, lacking in innovation or depth. The story may be uninteresting or poorly written, failing to draw the player in and keep them hooked. Or maybe the game mechanics are too complex or frustrating, making it difficult for the player to enjoy the experience.


Whatever the reason, DNFing a game is a personal choice. Some players may be more forgiving and willing to push through the less engaging parts in the hopes that the game will improve. Others, however, value their time and will not waste it on a game that does not meet their expectations.


In conclusion, while DNFing a game may seem like a negative thing, it can actually be a positive sign that the player is aware of their own preferences and is not willing to settle for a mediocre gaming experience.
July 14,2025
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An interesting story,

but the writing was pretty dry.

I found myself constantly comparing it to Jon Krakauer's book.

Krakauer has a unique way of bringing stories to life with his vivid descriptions and engaging narrative style.

In contrast, this story lacked the same level of excitement and energy.

The characters seemed flat, and the plot didn't have the same depth and complexity.

It's not that the story was bad, but it just didn't measure up to the high standards set by Krakauer.

I still enjoyed reading it to a certain extent, but it left me longing for more.

Perhaps with a little more polish and refinement, this story could have been just as good as Krakauer's.

Overall, it was an okay read, but it didn't leave a lasting impression on me.
July 14,2025
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I have a profound and obvious love for the non-fiction, moutaineering story.

This genre has always held a special allure for me. It allows me to embark on thrilling adventures through the written words, experiencing the challenges and triumphs of mountaineers from the comfort of my own home.

I really enjoyed this particular story, as it vividly描绘了 the arduous journey of climbers as they strive to reach the summit. The detailed descriptions of the harsh mountain environment, the physical and mental hardships endured, and the unwavering determination of the climbers made me feel as if I was right there with them.

It not only entertained me but also inspired me with its message of perseverance and the pursuit of dreams. Through this story, I gained a deeper appreciation for the courage and tenacity of those who dare to take on the mighty mountains.

Overall, my love for non-fiction moutaineering stories remains as strong as ever, and I look forward to exploring more of these captivating tales in the future.
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