84 pages • 2 hours read
Into Thin Air: A Personal Account of the Mount Everest Disaster
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Book Brief
368
Book • Nonfiction
Mount Everest • 1990s
1997
Adult
18+ years
1320L
Super Short Summary
In Into Thin Air, Jon Krakauer recounts his attempt to climb Mount Everest, initially assigned by Outside magazine to cover the commercial development at the mountain's base. Krakauer joins Adventure Consultants led by Rob Hall, splitting the climb into five camps. Despite favorable conditions, the group faces severe altitude challenges and critical errors, culminating in a deadly storm that claims several lives, including guides and climbers, while Krakauer survives, deeply affected by the tragedy.
Suspenseful
Challenging
Mysterious
Contemplative
Melancholic
Reviews & Readership
543,282 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer is a gripping and intense account of the 1996 Mount Everest disaster. Praised for its vivid storytelling and thorough research, it effectively transports readers to the perilous mountain peaks. However, some critics find Krakauer's perspective subjective and argue that it overshadows other participants' narratives. Overall, it is a compelling but contentious read.
Who Should Read Into Thin Air?
A reader who would enjoy Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer is likely an adventurer at heart, fascinated by real-life tales of survival and high-stakes expeditions. Fans of Touching the Void by Joe Simpson or Endurance: Shackleton's Incredible Voyage by Alfred Lansing will find the same blend of thrilling narrative and meticulous detail captivating.
543,282 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Rob Hall
Rob Hall
An experienced mountaineer from New Zealand and head guide of Adventure Consultants, known for his cautious and organized approach to leading Everest expeditions.
Andy Harris
Andy Harris
A young and likable guide from New Zealand working with Rob Hall, whose actions during the expedition demonstrate courage and commitment to helping others.
Sandy Pittman
Sandy Pittman
A climber on the Mountain Madness expedition known for embodying the commercialization of Everest, who faces public scrutiny after the events on the mountain.
368
Book • Nonfiction
Mount Everest • 1990s
1997
Adult
18+ years
1320L
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