The Young Adventurer's Guide to Everest

Lisa Arsenault is an elementary-school teacher in Ajax, Ontario.

Often, books written in the alphabet format feel stilted as authors
struggle to find theme-appropriate words for each letter. Jonathan
Chester’s handbook for young readers interested in learning the nuts
and bolts of tackling the world’s highest mountain manages to avoid
the common pitfalls of this format. Chester has also chosen to write in
the second person, a style that can sound forced or condescending. In
this case, however, the approach results in a text that conveys the
feeling of a conversation between a more experienced mountain climber
and someone new to this challenging and dangerous vocation.

Beautifully illustrated, the book includes many full-color photographs
of everything from Mani stones and frostbitten fingers to camp life and
climbers in action. Lists of climbing and expedition equipment, Everest
lingo, advice for young climbers interested in getting started in the
sport, as well as a list of resources for more information make this a
wonderful primer for anyone interested in learning how an Everest ascent
is actually accomplished.

Chester, a photographer and climber with many ascents under his belt,
has created a visually rich book chock full of the kinds of authentic
details that can only be provided by someone who has actually been
there: readers will appreciate the deep respect the author has for both
his subject and his audience. Highly recommended.