Krakauer covers his own experiences climbing (unsuccessfully) the Eiger Nordwand, El Capitan (successfully), and the Devil's Thumb in Alaska amongst others tales of canyoneering, extreme winter sporting, and adventure in environments where geology and mother nature are the only enemies. His writing is lucid, captivating. He writes better than any other mountain climbing author's books I've thumbed through... the only bummer, is that I wish there was more!! Great book that will surely entice you to push your limits in the great outdoors.