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Beyond Everest: One Sherpa’s Summit and Hope for Nepal
One small man, one giant a Sherpa’s quest to create a better future, one perilous step at a time.
Every success story begins with a single step in the right direction. Pem Dorjee Sherpa's journey began with a determination to break the cycle of poverty and abuse he was born into. To do that, Pem will have to summon the resilience, courage, and resolve to do what others only dream summit Mt. Everest.
While much has been written about the elite climbers who attempt to conquer Everest, Pem's account is from the rarely heard point of view of a Sherpa. Genetically adapted to life at high altitude and with very few options for making a living, the Sherpas who join climbing expeditions put their own lives on the line to make the dreams of elite climbers come true. Pem’s account is an inside look at the realities of this life, as well as the social and cultural hurdles he must overcome to be with Moni, his feisty and independent Newari wife.
Join Pem in this inspiring tale of one man's quest to create a brighter future, one perilous step at a time.
Every success story begins with a single step in the right direction. Pem Dorjee Sherpa's journey began with a determination to break the cycle of poverty and abuse he was born into. To do that, Pem will have to summon the resilience, courage, and resolve to do what others only dream summit Mt. Everest.
While much has been written about the elite climbers who attempt to conquer Everest, Pem's account is from the rarely heard point of view of a Sherpa. Genetically adapted to life at high altitude and with very few options for making a living, the Sherpas who join climbing expeditions put their own lives on the line to make the dreams of elite climbers come true. Pem’s account is an inside look at the realities of this life, as well as the social and cultural hurdles he must overcome to be with Moni, his feisty and independent Newari wife.
Join Pem in this inspiring tale of one man's quest to create a brighter future, one perilous step at a time.
- GenresNonfiction
263 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
October 15, 2024
Thank you @dartfrogbooks for the gifted copy and having me on tour.
TITLE: BEYOND EVEREST: One Sherpa’s Summit and Hope for Nepal
AUTHOR: Corinne Richardson with Pem Dorjee Sherpa
PUB DATE: 09.30.2024 Now Available
Richardson wrote this inspiring and incredibly moving story about a Sherpa named Pem Dorjee, who was born sometime in 1982 and maybe on a Saturday, to a hard yet simple life in a small village in Nepal without roads, running water or even electricity. Pem’s life is unique in that he was one of the few who not only survived the summit of Mt Everest, be the first couple to marry at the summit, but leave poverty behind and move to the US.
Author Corinne Richardson did an astonishing job capturing Pem Dorjee’s life as a Sherpa, the challenges, and the incredibly inspiring stories.
I loved every page!
QOTD: How is your week going?
#beyondeverest #corinnerichardson #nonfiction #survivalbiographies #sherpabiohraphies
TITLE: BEYOND EVEREST: One Sherpa’s Summit and Hope for Nepal
AUTHOR: Corinne Richardson with Pem Dorjee Sherpa
PUB DATE: 09.30.2024 Now Available
Richardson wrote this inspiring and incredibly moving story about a Sherpa named Pem Dorjee, who was born sometime in 1982 and maybe on a Saturday, to a hard yet simple life in a small village in Nepal without roads, running water or even electricity. Pem’s life is unique in that he was one of the few who not only survived the summit of Mt Everest, be the first couple to marry at the summit, but leave poverty behind and move to the US.
Author Corinne Richardson did an astonishing job capturing Pem Dorjee’s life as a Sherpa, the challenges, and the incredibly inspiring stories.
I loved every page!
QOTD: How is your week going?
#beyondeverest #corinnerichardson #nonfiction #survivalbiographies #sherpabiohraphies
January 31, 2026
The title „Beyond Everest: One Sherpas Summit and Hope for Nepal“ does not do Pem Dorjee Sherpa‘s story justice. I was expecting to read a story of a Sherpa guide that summited Mount Everest in the shadow of one of his summit-hungry clients. I was not expecting a story of such resilience: a Sherpa boy who escapes poverty and abuse, and who against all odds conquers hardships, and works his way toward the peak of Everest.
But standing on top of the world was just the beginning. With Pem and his expedition partners and friends Moni and Kami atop the mountain, a path to a brighter future was paved for Pem’s hometown Chyangba, the women of Nepal, and a young girl in a tea house..
Pem, Moni, Kami, thank you for letting Corrine tell your story. It was an empowering, inspiring read.
But standing on top of the world was just the beginning. With Pem and his expedition partners and friends Moni and Kami atop the mountain, a path to a brighter future was paved for Pem’s hometown Chyangba, the women of Nepal, and a young girl in a tea house..
Pem, Moni, Kami, thank you for letting Corrine tell your story. It was an empowering, inspiring read.
January 15, 2025
“Beyond Everest: One Sherpa’s Summit and Hope for Nepal” by Corinne Richardson is a captivating tale that transports readers to the splendor and majesty of Everest with the main character, Pem, and his family. It also shares personal accounts of the challenges that he and others encountered.
Like most Sherpas, Pem was born in a remote village in the lower Solukhumbu-Everest Region of Nepal. He was inspired to climb Everest by need rather than for leisure, to test his limits, or for the adrenaline rush. As the urge to climb Everest grew in the Western world, he first ascended the mountain as a hired expedition porter to improve his family’s quality of life. Given his lack of climbing experience, lack of funds for a helmet, and unfamiliarity with the Everest summit route, he was at risk of injury when his new job began. However, Pem persevered due to his unwavering will to support his family in Chyangba, his wild and crazy dream of moving to France or America someday, and his growing affection for his wife, Moni.
At a time when Nepalese custom prohibited women from working outside the home, Pem’s wife Moni accompanied him on the expeditions, aiming to do something new that no one had done before and to show that women could do the same things as men. The sight of many dead bodies along the way would, however, haunt Moni’s memory, and fear, headaches, and vision problems made her doubt herself. Despite this, she was determined to fly the Rotary Nepal Centennial Flag over the summit and make history by marrying the love of her life—rather than the man her culture suggested—atop the mountain.
A compelling example of the power of true love, dedication, and the incredible results of pursuing one’s goals with the right type of determination to conquer every hurdle can be found in Pem and Moni’s tale. Defying historical bounds and breaking cultural norms are themes covered in this memoir as they defeat death traps that many people have fallen into. Their story portrays Nepal’s breathtaking scenery and the paradoxical pleasure and optimism of its inhabitants despite their extreme poverty. By fusing deep spiritual beliefs, religious and traditional ideas, and personal traditions, the author has produced an immensely compelling tale that satisfies readers.
“Beyond Everest: One Sherpa’s Summit and Hope for Nepal” grabbed my attention as I beheld a couple rise from ashes to triumph. Corinne Richardson and Pem Dorjee Sherpa do a great job telling the story of many Nepalese climbing Sherpas, including their families, communities, the fabric of their culture and lifestyles, their challenges, spiritual journeys, dreams, and opportunities. Both the decision to write this and the research done to obtain accurate stories are noteworthy. ”Beyond Everest” is an exciting book with several life lessons and a lasting historical imprint that makes the reader feel as if they have taken a genuine trip to the top of the world.
Like most Sherpas, Pem was born in a remote village in the lower Solukhumbu-Everest Region of Nepal. He was inspired to climb Everest by need rather than for leisure, to test his limits, or for the adrenaline rush. As the urge to climb Everest grew in the Western world, he first ascended the mountain as a hired expedition porter to improve his family’s quality of life. Given his lack of climbing experience, lack of funds for a helmet, and unfamiliarity with the Everest summit route, he was at risk of injury when his new job began. However, Pem persevered due to his unwavering will to support his family in Chyangba, his wild and crazy dream of moving to France or America someday, and his growing affection for his wife, Moni.
At a time when Nepalese custom prohibited women from working outside the home, Pem’s wife Moni accompanied him on the expeditions, aiming to do something new that no one had done before and to show that women could do the same things as men. The sight of many dead bodies along the way would, however, haunt Moni’s memory, and fear, headaches, and vision problems made her doubt herself. Despite this, she was determined to fly the Rotary Nepal Centennial Flag over the summit and make history by marrying the love of her life—rather than the man her culture suggested—atop the mountain.
A compelling example of the power of true love, dedication, and the incredible results of pursuing one’s goals with the right type of determination to conquer every hurdle can be found in Pem and Moni’s tale. Defying historical bounds and breaking cultural norms are themes covered in this memoir as they defeat death traps that many people have fallen into. Their story portrays Nepal’s breathtaking scenery and the paradoxical pleasure and optimism of its inhabitants despite their extreme poverty. By fusing deep spiritual beliefs, religious and traditional ideas, and personal traditions, the author has produced an immensely compelling tale that satisfies readers.
“Beyond Everest: One Sherpa’s Summit and Hope for Nepal” grabbed my attention as I beheld a couple rise from ashes to triumph. Corinne Richardson and Pem Dorjee Sherpa do a great job telling the story of many Nepalese climbing Sherpas, including their families, communities, the fabric of their culture and lifestyles, their challenges, spiritual journeys, dreams, and opportunities. Both the decision to write this and the research done to obtain accurate stories are noteworthy. ”Beyond Everest” is an exciting book with several life lessons and a lasting historical imprint that makes the reader feel as if they have taken a genuine trip to the top of the world.
January 18, 2026
Beyond Everest: One Sherpa’s Summit and Hope for Nepal tells the story of Pem Dorjee’s journey from a poor Himalayan village to summiting Mount Everest. The book highlights the challenges Sherpas face while supporting expeditions and explores Pem’s personal life, including his secret marriage to Moni, immigration to the United States, and efforts to improve his community in Nepal. It is a story of resilience, cultural insight, and hope for Nepal. It offers a powerful and thoughtful perspective on life in the shadow of the world’s highest mountain.
The book centers on Pem Dorjee Sherpa, a respected mountaineer whose story goes far beyond reaching the summit. Pem represents resilience, leadership, and a deep commitment to creating better opportunities for Sherpas outside of the climbing industry. His journey challenges the idea that Everest is only a stage for Western achievement and reframes it as a catalyst for personal and social transformation.
Equally important is Pem’s wife, Moni, whose story adds emotional depth and critical insight. Moni challenges traditional gender roles in Nepali society and advocates for education, independence, and choice for women. Her perspective highlights the tension between long-standing cultural expectations and the desire for social change.
Together, Pem and Moni embody the complexities of navigating tradition while striving for a more equitable future.
The narrative presents Everest not just as a physical challenge, but as a turning point in their lives. For Pem and Moni, climbing represents freedom, self-definition, and the ability to set boundaries, including their decision to marry on their own terms. Everest becomes both a symbol of achievement and a means of reclaiming control over their futures. However, the book also makes clear that individual progress does not always reflect broader societal change. Nepali society, particularly in its views on gender roles and class, often lags behind the transformations experienced by Pem and Moni.
At times, the story can feel uncomfortable, especially in moments where Moni criticizes another woman Sherpa for choosing a different path. These moments reveal that empowerment looks different for everyone and that social change is rarely straightforward.
Overall, Beyond Everest is an eye-opening and nuanced exploration of how cultural traditions, environmental realities, and gender expectations continue to shape lives in Nepal. While Pem and Moni use Everest as a tool for self-determination and hope, the book reminds readers that meaningful social progress remains slow, complex, and unfinished.
The book centers on Pem Dorjee Sherpa, a respected mountaineer whose story goes far beyond reaching the summit. Pem represents resilience, leadership, and a deep commitment to creating better opportunities for Sherpas outside of the climbing industry. His journey challenges the idea that Everest is only a stage for Western achievement and reframes it as a catalyst for personal and social transformation.
Equally important is Pem’s wife, Moni, whose story adds emotional depth and critical insight. Moni challenges traditional gender roles in Nepali society and advocates for education, independence, and choice for women. Her perspective highlights the tension between long-standing cultural expectations and the desire for social change.
Together, Pem and Moni embody the complexities of navigating tradition while striving for a more equitable future.
The narrative presents Everest not just as a physical challenge, but as a turning point in their lives. For Pem and Moni, climbing represents freedom, self-definition, and the ability to set boundaries, including their decision to marry on their own terms. Everest becomes both a symbol of achievement and a means of reclaiming control over their futures. However, the book also makes clear that individual progress does not always reflect broader societal change. Nepali society, particularly in its views on gender roles and class, often lags behind the transformations experienced by Pem and Moni.
At times, the story can feel uncomfortable, especially in moments where Moni criticizes another woman Sherpa for choosing a different path. These moments reveal that empowerment looks different for everyone and that social change is rarely straightforward.
Overall, Beyond Everest is an eye-opening and nuanced exploration of how cultural traditions, environmental realities, and gender expectations continue to shape lives in Nepal. While Pem and Moni use Everest as a tool for self-determination and hope, the book reminds readers that meaningful social progress remains slow, complex, and unfinished.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 3, 2024
This incredible account of life as a Sherpa is awe inspiring. From the memories of an early life filled with poverty and abuse to the amazing feat of conquering Mt. Everest and being the first couple to get married at the summit, I was astounded at the courage and will to survive and thrive displayed by both Pem and Moni.
The author does a fantastic job of capturing their unique experience and highlighting not only the challenges, but also the day to day accomplishments on their sixty day expedition to the summit. I loved looking at the accompanying photos that enhanced my mental visual of their climb.
For anyone looking for the thrill of reading about an extreme sport, the history and lifestyle of the Sherpa guides, or the romance and once in a lifetime experience of completing the ascent to the top and getting married there, this is the book for you.
I received a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
The author does a fantastic job of capturing their unique experience and highlighting not only the challenges, but also the day to day accomplishments on their sixty day expedition to the summit. I loved looking at the accompanying photos that enhanced my mental visual of their climb.
For anyone looking for the thrill of reading about an extreme sport, the history and lifestyle of the Sherpa guides, or the romance and once in a lifetime experience of completing the ascent to the top and getting married there, this is the book for you.
I received a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 3, 2024
Corinne Richardson gives voice to mountaineer Pem Sherpa and his wife Moni Mulepati. Beyond Everest is a carefully researched and respectfully written tale of summiting the world's highest peak from a Sherpa perspective. Pem and Moni's triumph and marriage at the top of the world is an inspiration, a love story, and an accomplishment without peer.
Richardson compellingly weaves the narrative of the communities Pem and Moni grew up in, the physical and psychological challenges of the climb, and this remarkable couple's passion for improving the lives of others into a masterful story to be enjoyed by mountaineers and armchair travelers alike.
Richardson compellingly weaves the narrative of the communities Pem and Moni grew up in, the physical and psychological challenges of the climb, and this remarkable couple's passion for improving the lives of others into a masterful story to be enjoyed by mountaineers and armchair travelers alike.
October 23, 2024
Beautifully written account of a Sherpa's life from childhood poverty to the heights of Everest and beyond, including a highly unlikely love story. Wonderful to see an Everest book from the oft-overlooked Sherpa perspective. Highly recommended.
July 19, 2025
3.5 stars. I was expecting more. But I did learn a few things and it set me down a rabbit hole of looking up Mt. Everest facts and world records.
January 14, 2025
Sent to us by Pem and I actually made a TikTok series interviewing Pem and Moni if you want to check it out @vylalala :)
I think this is a great read if you are wanting to hear about Nepal and climbing Everest from the Nepali and Sherpa perspective. There is so much written about Climbing in Nepal, but it’s all from foreigners so I was happy to hear this perspective. Richardson does a great job at telling their stories in full and I learned a lot of things about the Nepali culture I wasn’t aware of.
I think this is a great read if you are wanting to hear about Nepal and climbing Everest from the Nepali and Sherpa perspective. There is so much written about Climbing in Nepal, but it’s all from foreigners so I was happy to hear this perspective. Richardson does a great job at telling their stories in full and I learned a lot of things about the Nepali culture I wasn’t aware of.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews