The Ascent

by Jeff Long

Book Overview

The treacherous dark side of Mount Everest is the setting for this high-stakes adventure, the story of ten men and two women who pit themselves against the ultimate summit. The ascent is the supreme test of physical and emotional discipline. Yet the mountain, in its otherworldly, ice-sheathed beauty, offers two of the climbers a special promise of release from a haunting past.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0688108881
• ISBN13: 9780688108885
• Release Date: January 1992
• Publisher: William Morrow & Company
• Length: 284 Pages
• Weight: 1.35 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.1" x 6.5" x 9.4"

Customer Reviews

A Bit About Jeff

I've had the priviledge of meeting Jeff several times. He's the kind of writer that takes you by surprise. Not only is he one of the greatest writers in the entire world (not just my opinion) but he's an "older brother" or, at least, I consider him an older brother type. My actual older brother used to read to my when I was younger and now Jeff "reads to me" by telling me wonderful stories about human beings and the glories and tragedies of being human. He's reserved, quiet kind of guy, very personable, intelligent and also a gentleman. The first of Jeff's books that I read was "The RECKONING." Now, it's very hard for me to describe what it's like for me to read any of Jeff's novels (those of you who've read Jeff's books already know). From the first page I'm lured into the story as an interested viewer - an outsider. Before too long, I'm swept along as a PARTICIPANT, living and striving right along with the characters! People who LOVE to read know this pleasure of being INSIDE the story, and the satisfaction and sadness that comes when reaching the last page and closing the book with a loving hand an a sigh. This is what is readily available within the pages of a JEFF LONG novel - from the heights of the Himalayas to the depths of the earth, the human spirit is a force to be RECKONED with. Pick up one of Jeff's books. Treat yourself.

This book ROCKS!

Long is a talented, insightful, and original writer. He's written a story that never lets up, and leads you places you never thought you'd go. Go ahead, try putting it down once you've started. Can't wait for more............

A Triumph of the Human Spirit

This novel is not only about the conquest to defeat Mt. Everest, it is about the strength of the human spirit. While attempting to top Mt. Everest 10 climbers come to grips with their weaknesses and strengths. They come to understand about morality and the things that are truly important in this life.This novel was a good read on several levels.

If you can find it, buy it!

This is a very well-written book -- also harrowing, scary and depressing. You will finish it feeling like you just barely survived. Long, as a climber himself, captures the desperate alienness of the Death Zone. Read it!

great adventure read--too bad it's out of print

One of my favorite books for pure adventure. Starts with a bang and doesn't let up much.