Description
Book Synopsis: By the author of the New York Times bestselling Everest: Mountain Without Mercy, this chronicle of the iconic first American expedition to Mt. Everest in May 1963 – published to coincide with the climb's 50th anniversary – combines riveting adventure, a perceptive analysis of its dark and terrifying historical context, and revelations about a secret mission that followed. In the midst of the Cold War, against the backdrop of the Bay of Pigs fiasco, the space race with the Soviet Union, and the quagmire of the Vietnam War, a band of iconoclastic, independent-minded American mountaineers set off for Mt. Everest, aiming to restore America's confidence and optimism. Their objective is to reach the summit while conducting scientific research, but which route will they take? Might the Chinese, in a public relations coup, have reached the top ahead of them? And what about another American team, led by the grandson of a President, that nearly bagged the peak in a bootleg attempt a year earlier?The Vast Unknown is, on one level, a harrowing, character-driven account of the climb itself and its legendary team of alternately inspiring, troubled, and tragic climbers who suffered injuries, a near mutiny, and death on the mountain. It is also an examination of the profound sway the expedition had over the American consciousness and sense of identity during a time when the country was floundering. And it is an investigation of the expedition's little-known outcome: the selection of a team to plant a CIA surveillance device on the Himalayan peak of Nanda Devi, to spy into China where Defense Intelligence learned that nuclear missile testing was underway.
Details
Experience the thrilling adventure and captivating history of America's first ascent of Everest in The Vast Unknown. Written by the renowned author of the New York Times bestseller Everest: Mountain Without Mercy, this gripping chronicle takes you back to May 1963, when a group of fearless American mountaineers embarked on a mission to restore America's confidence and optimism. As you delve into the pages of this book, you'll uncover the dark and terrifying historical context surrounding the expedition, including a secret mission that followed during the height of the Cold War.
Join this band of courageous climbers as they navigate the treacherous slopes of Mt. Everest, driven by both scientific curiosity and the desire to conquer the highest peak on earth. With the backdrop of the Bay of Pigs fiasco, the space race, and the Vietnam War, their journey becomes a symbol of resilience and determination amidst a turbulent era. Will they be the first to reach the summit, or has China already beaten them to it? And what secrets lie hidden in the shadows of a failed attempt by another American team?
The Vast Unknown is not just a gripping adventure tale; it's a profound exploration of the expedition's impact on the American consciousness and national identity. As you follow the stories of the climbers, you'll witness their inspiring triumphs, personal struggles, and tragic losses. Their journey will resonate with you, reminding you of the unyielding spirit that defines the American spirit in times of adversity.
But that's not all. The Vast Unknown also reveals a shocking revelation: the expedition's covert CIA mission to plant a surveillance device on the Himalayan peak of Nanda Devi. Delve into the depths of espionage as you uncover the clandestine operation designed to gather intelligence on China's nuclear missile testing. This untold chapter adds another layer of intrigue and suspense to an already gripping narrative.
Don't miss your chance to immerse yourself in the compelling story of The Vast Unknown: America's First Ascent of Everest. Gain a newfound appreciation for the human spirit, history, and the unexplored mysteries of one of the world's most dangerous mountains. Get your copy today and embark on an unforgettable journey.
Find out more about The Vast Unknown and secure your copy now!
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