Into Thin Air

Into Thin Air


By: Jon Krakauer
Reviewed by: Kayleigh, 16
Rating: Really liked it


Imagine climbing Mt. Everest, getting to the top and realizing that you're only halfway done with this journey...you still have to get safely down the mountain! This is what author Jon Krakauer realizes in his first-hand account of his climb up Everest.

In this novel Krakauer uses his own personal experience to show the reader the dangers and excitement of climbing Everest. You feel like you’re right beside him as he make his journey to the Everest Summit and back down to base camp. You also learn quite a bit about the history of Everest. But you also learn about the dangers of climbing Everest and feel the sorrow Krakauer goes through when he loses some close friends.

This is a good book to read for older teens and adults. It’s based off of his article for Outside magazine, but goes into more detail about his climb. The book gives insight to how commercialized Mt. Everest has become since its beginnings and how the tragedy of 1996 affected Krakauer and his climbing team.

The first half of the book may not be as exciting since Krakauer chooses to tell you a lot about the history of Everest and preparation for his climb. However, after you learn about the history, it is much more captivating! And keep a dictionary nearby, your vocabulary is sure to expand!


Recommended to: readers who like real life mountain adventures