A book review by David Flinn, 1984.

Of the many books published by Reinhold, this is one of his best. Besides the usual spectacular photography, the accounts of his ventures on this Himalayan mountain are concise and well written. On his earlier ascent of Nanga, Reinhold lost his brother Gunther in an avalanche. He explains why he wishes to return and the reason for going alone. His story is easy to read and does not glorify his ascent.

Reinhold does an excellent job of capturing his emotions and thoughts before, during, and after the climb. Most notable are the descriptions of his conflicting inner dialogs with himself while on the mountain; quarreling with the decision to go on in the face of danger or to descend to escape the overwhelming terror of being all alone in Nanga’s forbidding environment.

As a bonus, he includes all recorded attempts and ascents on the 8000′ meter mountain. A great book to read on those blustery February nights.