Overview: Some failures lead to phenomenal successes, and this American nurse's unsuccessful attempt to climb K2, the world's second tallest mountain, is one of them. Dangerously ill when he finished his climb in 1993, Mortenson was sheltered for seven weeks by the small Pakistani village of Korphe; in return, he promised to build the impoverished town's first school, a project that grew into the Central Asia Institute, which has since constructed more than 50 schools across rural Pakistan and Afghanistan.
My review: I absolutely loved this story. In fact, so much, that I put everything else aside, except work, to finish it and then I didn't want it to end. And thank heavens it doesn't. Greg continues his unselfish work on behalf of the people who live at "top of the world" in the most inhospitable environments. This man talks the talk and walks the walk, especially in places that most of us fear to tread. From start to finish this story is revelation of what people can do for one another if only we could see beyond ourselves. Yes this book is about building schools, work programs, and water projects. But really it's about so more. It's about caring for others a world away and helping them help themselves without imposing our beliefs. So much can be accomplished for so little. The people who live in these villages really are no different from you and I. They want the same things as we do: to provide food and shelter for their families, educate their children and most of all provide more opportunities than they themselves had so that new generations have a brighter future. If you think everything in the world has gone to hell and the evening news isn't worth watching pick up this book and think again.
1 Comment:
I heard Mortensen talk on the radio some time ago but didn't realise that there was a book about his endeavours. Thanks for this review. I can go out an look for it myself now.
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