Into Thin Air

by Jon Krakauer, John Krakauer
Into Thin Air cover
Good Books rating 4.33
Investigative Journalism
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Waterstones
Paperback • £10.99
Amazon
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  • ID: 560
  • Added: 2025-09-18
  • Updated: 2025-10-31
  • ISBN: 9780679457527
  • Publisher: Villard
  • Published: 1997-04-22
  • Formats: 26
  • Reviews: 4

Into Thin Air is Jon Krakauer's gripping and definitive account of the 1996 Mount Everest disaster, the deadliest season in the mountain's history. As a journalist on assignment for Outside Magazine, Krakauer joined a guided expedition led by renowned climber Rob Hall. The book vividly recounts the events leading up to the fatal storm, the desperate struggle for survival, and the aftermath, offering a stark look at the commercialization of Everest and the human drive to conquer its summit. Krakauer's firsthand experience and meticulous reporting provide an unparalleled perspective on the tragedy. He explores the psychological and physical challenges faced by climbers, the decisions that led to the disaster, and the enduring allure of Everest. This powerful narrative is not just a story of survival but also a profound examination of the human spirit and the costs of ambition.

Reviews
Facebook - TwoGirlsMustReads · 2025-10-24
great 4.00

The writing style is excellent and the account of the disaster is vivid. It's a compelling read that offers a unique perspective on the events.

The writing style in this book is exceptional, something that is sorely missing in many of today's young authors. The account of the 1996 disaster on Mount Everest is vivid and compelling. The author's personal perspective provides a unique and engaging view of the events, making it a must-read for anyone interested in mountaineering or survival stories.

Quick quotes

    Great writing style, sorely missing in many of today's young authors.

    A vivid account of the 1996 disaster at Mt. Everest.

    Except that it's not.

Amazon · 2025-10-20
compelling 4.60

The book provides an objective view of the 1996 disaster, offering an honest analysis of the events from someone who was there.

Jon Krakauer's account of the 1996 Mount Everest disaster is both compelling and insightful. The book provides an objective view of the events, offering an honest analysis from someone who was actually there. Krakauer's writing style is engaging and informative, making it a valuable read for anyone interested in the details of the disaster. The book is well-written and offers a unique perspective on the tragedy.

Quick quotes

    A very well written, objective view of what happened in 1996 from someone who was actually there.

    Mr Krakauer offers an honest analysis of the events.

    The book is very unusual and Jon Krakauer depicts every event in his style which is very interesting.

Jonathan Perks · Jonathan Perks · 2025-10-11
riveting 4.50

The book is described as a riveting first-hand account of the 1996 Everest disaster, with Krakauer's writing style making it feel like a novel. The reviewer finds it compelling and well-written.

Jonathan Perks finds 'Into Thin Air' to be a riveting and compelling read, praising Krakauer's ability to make a true story feel like a novel. They highlight the detailed and engaging narrative that brings the disaster to life, making it both gripping and emotionally impactful. Perks also appreciates the first-hand account, which adds authenticity and depth to the story. They note that Krakauer's writing style is particularly effective in conveying the tension and tragedy of the events on Everest.

Quick quotes

    I found this to be a riveting, first-hand account of the 1996 disaster on Mount Everest.

    Krakauer's prose and style make it feel like a novel.

    The sudden storm claimed the lives of eight climbers, and Krakauer's narrative brings the tragedy to life.

Lotzin Translation · 2024-12-05
gripping 4.20

The book is gripping and thought-provoking, exploring themes of human resilience and the desire to challenge nature. It leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

The reviewer from Lotzin Translation describes Into Thin Air as a gripping and thought-provoking read that explores themes of human resilience and the strange impulse to defy death and challenge nature. The book is praised for its ability to make the reader think deeply about cold, altitude, oxygen, and the dangers of mountaineering. The reviewer appreciates the suspenseful and immersive nature of the narrative, which leaves a lasting impression. The book is seen as a powerful exploration of the human spirit and the consequences of pushing one's limits.

Quick quotes

    It is absolutely gripping and made me think about cold, altitude, oxygen, and the strange impulse to defy death and challenge nature.

    The book is a powerful exploration of the human spirit and the consequences of pushing one's limits.

    Into Thin Air leaves a lasting impression on the reader, making it a memorable and thought-provoking read.

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