Ed Viesturs is one of the world’s most acclaimed mountaineers, with successful ascents of all fourteen 8,000-meter peaks. But K2 has always been his nemesis–the mountain that consistently knocked him down. In 2008 he finally reached its summit and became the first American to do so. In “K2: Life and Death on the World’s Most Dangerous Mountain”, Ed tells the harrowing story of his final attempt in 2008, as well as two other near-death experiences on K2, giving readers an inside look at what it takes to climb this deadly peak. He also recounts his long friendship with climbing partner Peter Whittaker, which culminated in their joint ascent of Everest in May 2006–an adventure that nearly cost them their lives.”.
For who is this book for ?
“K2: Life and Death on the World’s Most Dangerous Mountain” is for anyone with an interest in climbing, mountaineering, or outdoor adventure. It provides a fascinating look at one of the most challenging climbs in the world, as well as giving readers some idea of what it takes to summit K2.
Pros :
- The author has first-hand experience with the mountain, which makes for an interesting and informative read.
- The book includes a lot of detail about Ed’s experiences on K2, providing readers with an up-close look at what it takes to climb this deadly peak.
- This is a well-written and engaging account of one man’s journey to achieve his dream
Cons :
- It is very short, only 188 pages
- It does not have many pictures
Learn more about the author
Ed Viesturs is one of the world’s most acclaimed mountaineers, with successful ascents of all fourteen 8,000-meter peaks. He has been named a Living Legend by the American Alpine Club and was awarded the prestigious David A. Sowles Memorial Award for his extraordinary courage on expeditions. In “K2: Life and Death on the World’s Most Dangerous Mountain”, he tells us about his three attempts to summit K2–a mountain that continuously knocks him down, but which he refuses to quit climbing.
Reader Reviews
“This is the detailed, first-person account of one man’s obsessive quest to summit K2, by far the most dangerous mountain on Earth. Viesturs is a renowned mountaineer and describes in thrilling detail his three attempts to reach the top of K2, each ending in failure. This book not only recounts harrowing tales of life-and-death situations faced by climbers but also provides an interesting glimpse into the culture and politics surrounding this extreme sport.”
“This book is an excellent read for anyone interested in mountaineering and the extreme risks that come with climbing some of the world’s most dangerous mountains. Viesturs takes you on a journey to K2, sharing his intimate knowledge of what it takes to reach its peak-and shows just how deadly this mountain can be. Anyone fascinated by high altitude adventure will enjoy this riveting tale.”
“K2 is the extensively researched and well-written story of one man’s attempt to climb Mt. K2, told with honesty and humility…A mountaineer’s tale of obsession, adventure, friendship, rivalry, death, and survival.”
“Ed Viesturs is one of the world’s most acclaimed mountaineers, with successful ascents of all fourteen 8,000-meter peaks. But K2 has always been his nemesis–the mountain that consistently knocked him down. In 2008 he finally reached its summit and became the first American to do so.”
