Description
Book Synopsis: Maria Coffey's Where the Mountain Casts Its Shadow is a powerful, affecting and important book that exposes the far reaching personal costs of extreme adventure.Without risk, say mountaineers, there would be none of the self-knowledge that comes from pushing life to its extremes. For them, perhaps, it is worth the cost. But when tragedy strikes, what happens to the people left behind? Why would anyone choose to invest in a future with a high-altitude risk-taker? What is life like in the shadow of the mountain? Such questions have long been taboo in the world of mountaineering. Now, the spouses, parents and children of internationally renowned climbers finally break their silence, speaking out about the dark side of adventure.
Maria Coffey confronted one of the harshest realities of mountaineering when her partner Joe Tasker disappeared on the Northeast Ridge of Everest in 1982. In Where the Mountain Casts Its Shadow, Coffey offers an intimate portrait of adventure and the conflicting beauty, passion, and devastation of this alluring obsession. Through interviews with the world's top climbers, or their widows and families-Jim Wickwire, Conrad Anker, Lynn Hill, Joe Simpson, Chris Bonington, Ed Viesturs, Anatoli Boukreev, Alex Lowe, and many others-she explores what compels men and women to give their lives to the high mountains. She asks why, despite the countless tragedies, the world continues to laud their exploits.
With an insider's understanding, Coffey reveals the consequences of loving people who pursue such risk-the exhilarating highs and inevitable lows, the stress of long separations, the constant threat of bereavement, and the lives shattered in the wake of climbing accidents.
Details
Are you ready to embark on a gripping journey into the dark side of extreme adventure? Look no further than Maria Coffey's compelling book, Where the Mountain Casts Its Shadow. This powerful account reveals the personal toll and sacrifices that come with pushing life to its limits. As mountaineers will tell you, without risk, there is no self-discovery. But have you ever wondered about the aftermath when tragedy strikes? What about the loved ones left behind? Coffey fearlessly explores these forbidden questions, giving voice to the spouses, parents, and children of renowned climbers.
By sharing her own experience of losing her partner on the treacherous slopes of Everest, Coffey provides an intimate look into the conflicting emotions that surround the allure of extreme adventure. Through candid interviews with legendary climbers like Jim Wickwire, Lynn Hill, and Chris Bonington, she dives deep into the motivations that drive men and women to risk their lives on the highest peaks. You'll gain unparalleled insights into their extraordinary journeys, captivating highs, and devastating lows.
Where does society's fascination with these daredevils come from? Coffey fearlessly asks this question and uncovers the consequences faced by those who love adventurous individuals. The stress of separation, the constant fear of loss, and the shattered lives left in the wake of climbing accidents are just some of the hardships explored in this eye-opening book.
If you've ever found yourself captivated by the allure of extreme adventure, Where the Mountain Casts Its Shadow is a must-read. Gain a new perspective on the personal costs and emotional turmoil that lie beneath the surface. Click here to embark on this riveting exploration of the dark side of adventure.
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