Into Thin Air is a firsthand account of an ill-fated Everest expedition written by Jon Krakauer. When disaster strikes, Krakauer is one of the few who has the strength to recount what happened. In riveting detail, he describes the team’s harrowing descent from 29,028 feet and their tragic entrapment in blizzard conditions high on the mountain. Among his comrades are renowned mountaineers Rob Hall and Scott Fischer, both of whom perished during the ascent. As Last out at dawn breaks–nearly 12 hours after leaving Camp 4–Krakauer finds himself alone with climbers still stranded on the peak.
For who is this book for ?
Into Thin Air is a firsthand account of an ill-fated Everest expedition, written by Jon Krakauer. If you’re interested in mountaineering, extreme sports, or just want to read a really good adventure story, then I would recommend picking up a copy of this book.
Pros :
- Krakauer is an experienced mountaineer and provides a detailed, firsthand account of what transpired.
- The writing is clear and engaging, providing readers with a gripping tale of adventure and survival.
- Into Thin Air offers insights into the psychology of climbers as they attempt to reach the summit of Everest.
Cons :
- It is a bit slow in parts.
- It can be difficult to follow the conversations of different climbers.
- The author’s opinion on certain topics can be frustrating
Learn more about the author
Jon Krakauer is an American writer and mountaineer, well known for his writings on outdoor sports, chiefly mountain climbing. He has authored or co-authored several books about outdoor activities including Into Thin Air (1997), which recounts his experiences on Mount Everest in 1996 when eight people died during a blizzard near the summit.
Reader Reviews
“This is one of the most compelling adventure books I’ve read in a long time.”
“I will never forget the terror and exhilaration of this book. Gripping from beginning to end.”
“I’m not a big fan of heights, and I don’t like to read about them either. But this book is different. Krakauer’s writing makes you feel as though you are right there with him.”
“An astonishing book. . . Krakauer has not only set the standard for what a great adventure story should be, but has demonstrated that nonfiction can be every bit as riveting and suspenseful as any work of fiction.”
