Concise and yet packed with detail, Touching the Void, Joe Simpson’s harrowing account of near-death in the Peruvian Andes, is a compact tour de force that wrestles with issues of bravery, friendship, physical endurance, the code of the mountains, and the will to live. Simpson dedicates the book to his climbing partner, Simon Yates, and to “those friends who have gone to the mountains and have not returned.” What is it that compels certain individuals to willingly seek out the most inhospitable climate on earth? To risk their lives in an attempt to leave footprints where few or none have gone before? Simpson’s vivid narrative of a dangerous climbing expedition will convince even the most die-hard couch potato that such pursuits fall within the realm of the sane. As the author struggles ever higher, readers learn of the mountain’s awesome power, the beautiful–and sometimes deadly–sheets of blue glacial ice, and the accomplishment of a successful ascent. And then catastrophe: the second half of Touching the Void sees Simpson at his darkest moment. With a smashed, useless leg, he and his partner must struggle down a near-vertical face–and that’s only the beginning of their troubles.
Author:Â Joe Simpson
Paperback:Â 224 pages
Company: Harper Paperbacks (2004-01)
ISBN:Â 0060730552
List Price:Â $14.95
Amazon Price:Â $4.94
Used Price:Â $0.01
More: continued here
The Petzl Ouistiti Kids’ Climbing Harness works for children from 4 to 9 years old and gives your future rock star a safe start on top rope laps. This full-body harness includes Petzl’s DoubleBack buckles for fast, easy, and secure adjustment and a comfortable fit. The center-chest tie-in point keeps your kid from flipping upside down in a fall. The Ouistiti Children’s Climbing Harness also includes well-padded leg loops to make your little one comfortable on climb after climb.
Multi-Function Whistle - This is a very versatile little tool. Strong enough to float a couple of keys. It also features a compass, accurate thermometer, and fold away magnifying lens. Very cool!
