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Life and Limb: A True Story of Tragedy and Survival
Jamie Andrew's survival and rescue after five nights trapped by a ferocious storm in 1999 has passed into Alpine legend. It was a miracle that he survived; but Jamie had to come to terms not only with the death of his close friend, Jamie Fisher, who died beside him - but also with the loss of all his limbs to frostbite. Since the accident, Jamie has struggled painfully and successfully to overcome his disabilities; not only has he learnt to walk (and run) on his prosthetic legs, but also to ski, snowboard, paraglide - and even take up his beloved mountaineering again.
LIFE AND LIMB tells for the first time the full story of Jamie's shocking ordeal and inspirational recovery. In 2004 it was shortlisted for the Boardman Tasker Prize and was the winner of the prestigious Banff Mountain Book Festival Prize for Mountain Literature. In March 2005 the paperback version was selected as Book of the Month by Ottakars Bookstores Scotland.
Jamie Andrew is the incredible Scottish mountaineer who, despite having no hands and feet, has made some amazing ascents all over the world. As a quadruple amputee, Jamie has also made many other remarkable achievements, raising many thousands of pounds for charity along the way.
‘A gripping story’ - Observer
‘Enthralling’ - Mail on Sunday
‘Like Joe Simpson, Andrew has discovered a latent talent for writing that only a mountaineering epic seems to have allowed him to uncover. And like Touching the Void, Life and Limb is brilliantly written and utterly un-put-down-able. If ever a tale evokes the phrase “life affirming” then this is it.’ - On the Edge magazine
‘His courage, determination and sense of humour shine through the words of this remarkable book… Life and Limb is a genuinely life-enhancing read.’ - Scottish Mountaineer
‘Driven and compelling… like Touching the Void I found myself reading on into the early morning to get through it.’ - Climber magazine
LIFE AND LIMB tells for the first time the full story of Jamie's shocking ordeal and inspirational recovery. In 2004 it was shortlisted for the Boardman Tasker Prize and was the winner of the prestigious Banff Mountain Book Festival Prize for Mountain Literature. In March 2005 the paperback version was selected as Book of the Month by Ottakars Bookstores Scotland.
Jamie Andrew is the incredible Scottish mountaineer who, despite having no hands and feet, has made some amazing ascents all over the world. As a quadruple amputee, Jamie has also made many other remarkable achievements, raising many thousands of pounds for charity along the way.
‘A gripping story’ - Observer
‘Enthralling’ - Mail on Sunday
‘Like Joe Simpson, Andrew has discovered a latent talent for writing that only a mountaineering epic seems to have allowed him to uncover. And like Touching the Void, Life and Limb is brilliantly written and utterly un-put-down-able. If ever a tale evokes the phrase “life affirming” then this is it.’ - On the Edge magazine
‘His courage, determination and sense of humour shine through the words of this remarkable book… Life and Limb is a genuinely life-enhancing read.’ - Scottish Mountaineer
‘Driven and compelling… like Touching the Void I found myself reading on into the early morning to get through it.’ - Climber magazine
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2003
41 people are currently reading
195 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
August 20, 2015
Ok, so we obviously know the outcome of this story but it is an extremely well written & documented book & I enjoyed it tremendously. Jamie strikes me as an immensely likeable chap & his tale absolutely restores your faith in mankind & the compassion of others. Not only am I full of admiration for Jamie & the strength & way he has approached his 'new' life & all it's challenges but Anna, his wife is a complete wonder woman!! I enjoyed learning a bit about mountaineering & the mountain ranges Jamie & his friends tackled, and loved Wednesday night visiting when he was in the PMR. One last thing.... when I come in from a 2 hour bike ride with 'freezing' feet I will think twice about complaining!
December 20, 2017
At the time I found this book, I was searching for true "adventure" stories that you can't put down and this was just that. Wow. What an incredible read. Not only is it such a fascinating story, but also such a well-written book, down to the finest detail. I loved how the chapters weren't too drawn out, I love how they were split up telling different stories within each one and if I was to be really picky (in a good way) I loved how the paragraphs were split so short as well.
This book was such a fascinating read. I wanted a book that I didn't want to put down and wow, did I find just that! Not only does it tell the story from start to finish in incredibly well-written detail that keeps you hooked, but it includes fair bits of light humour too - and yes, it answers some of the burning questions most of the general public dare not ask an amputee that you feel you are dying to know - so for what that was worth, thank you Jamie, haha!
But this truly was an inspirational read, with a few uplifting moments buried in there too. It also gives some anecdotal references to the social downsides of an amputee which was a little heartbreaking.
All in all, this is my current most recommended book! Absolutely loved it.
This book was such a fascinating read. I wanted a book that I didn't want to put down and wow, did I find just that! Not only does it tell the story from start to finish in incredibly well-written detail that keeps you hooked, but it includes fair bits of light humour too - and yes, it answers some of the burning questions most of the general public dare not ask an amputee that you feel you are dying to know - so for what that was worth, thank you Jamie, haha!
But this truly was an inspirational read, with a few uplifting moments buried in there too. It also gives some anecdotal references to the social downsides of an amputee which was a little heartbreaking.
All in all, this is my current most recommended book! Absolutely loved it.
January 27, 2022
This book is outside my comfort zone as I normally read fiction and I’m not a climber or mountaineer, however I really enjoyed reading about Jamie Andrew’s experiences following his tragic accident in the Alps. Inspirational and life affirming.
April 25, 2024
I never heard of the author before when I was given this book as a Christmas present.
It is one of a few books that I couldn’t put down. An inspirational, emotional and engaging story of the author’s quest to lead a normal life after a tragic accident in the alps.
It is one of a few books that I couldn’t put down. An inspirational, emotional and engaging story of the author’s quest to lead a normal life after a tragic accident in the alps.
August 13, 2008
Superb. Life at extremes, death, facing death and loss. In three parts, the first a gripping account of the author and his good friend caught on a mountain, rescue impossible, the death of the friend just before eventual help can get in. Starkly written accessible; at no point, even the worst, is humour far away. The final part is about returning to the hills as a quadruple amputee, and a shining example of endurance and how 'disablement' is not a dehumanising thing but a series of problems to be overcome; indeed, it would seem to me that the writer's humanity has increased manyfold past what most of us will ever achieve. I single outthe second part, his recuperation in hospital, and the adjustments to be made, the prosthetics to be designed, and so on. It is here that in meeting other 'disabled' the writer reflects how 'minor' are his own problems. In particular I would draw attention to the couple of pages in which he compares his lot and the tremendous support he receives with the fate of his friend who has been diagnosed bipolar, whose invisible illness requires as much or more support as he received, yet through the dreadful filters of stigma and discrimination is not allowed this.
June 27, 2023
What a book! Jamie Andrew and a climbing partner were stuck high above Chamonix and the weather changed - this book is the story and the consequences of that. The first third maybe cover the climb and the rescue. It is a really dramatic tense read even if you know the outcome. Anyone into climbing books should probably read this for that alone - I have read far worse. After that you get the treatment and to some degree physical recovery phase. A tough read for sure but well written again and not over played.
Then there is the more general recovery. Jamie is not some who is going to let anything get in the way of getting his life back on track. Thoughtful - yes, and at times that is not a cheerful position. However this really is a life affirming read in so many ways. He is a remarkable person. Not only for what happened to him but also for how he dealt with it. For me it ranks with Touching the Void and the like and is one of the best climbing books I've read. Equally it is one of the best biographies I've read too. 4.5/5 an very happily rounded up.
Then there is the more general recovery. Jamie is not some who is going to let anything get in the way of getting his life back on track. Thoughtful - yes, and at times that is not a cheerful position. However this really is a life affirming read in so many ways. He is a remarkable person. Not only for what happened to him but also for how he dealt with it. For me it ranks with Touching the Void and the like and is one of the best climbing books I've read. Equally it is one of the best biographies I've read too. 4.5/5 an very happily rounded up.
July 22, 2024
Everything I hope for in a book about mountaineering disasters, of which I've read several. Andrew is one of those writers who does not stick only to the straight and expected facts: there's real personality in this writing, and he isn't afraid to stray and reminisce, provide context, or take his time. He's also very honest, which I always appreciate -- it's tempting to always present ourselves in the best light, but Andrew gives the impression he's telling it like it is. His personality comes across naturally and his sense of humour is brilliant; he's also a deeply engaging storyteller with a real passion for everything he writes about, and it's clear that everything he records is genuine and not an attempt to put a neat bow on a tragedy.
Deeply entertaining, incredibly touching, and very accessible even to those who know nothing about climbing anything more complex than a flight of stairs, this is a really solid book. I'm honestly surprised Andrew hasn't written more, because he has a real talent for it.
Deeply entertaining, incredibly touching, and very accessible even to those who know nothing about climbing anything more complex than a flight of stairs, this is a really solid book. I'm honestly surprised Andrew hasn't written more, because he has a real talent for it.
May 31, 2017
I've slept since finishing so I'll try and remember what I wanted to say,
It's really a book of 3 stories each well written but with me holding a finder memory of the first 2. While the 3rd was just as compelling and probably held some of the more feel good and funnier moments it's narrative jumped about unlike the nice flow of the other 2.
The writing style is ace (or maybe that's just my liking of Jamie's personality) and it stands out compared to other mountain survival books I've read in the details and quality of writing in the post-trauma writing, which is where I normally lose interest in books such as this.
Had a lot of laughs and a few heartfelt feel good moments, as well as some that convey genuine sadness... It's just rather well written and rather ace in my opinion.
It's really a book of 3 stories each well written but with me holding a finder memory of the first 2. While the 3rd was just as compelling and probably held some of the more feel good and funnier moments it's narrative jumped about unlike the nice flow of the other 2.
The writing style is ace (or maybe that's just my liking of Jamie's personality) and it stands out compared to other mountain survival books I've read in the details and quality of writing in the post-trauma writing, which is where I normally lose interest in books such as this.
Had a lot of laughs and a few heartfelt feel good moments, as well as some that convey genuine sadness... It's just rather well written and rather ace in my opinion.
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March 30, 2026This story covers the ordeal and tragedy the author survived on the mountain, the challenges and gains on rehabilitation, and then rebuilding and regaining life as a quadruple amputee. The first third of the book was tough to read and impossible to imagine how one could survive mentality let alone physically. Following that though, where I imagined despair, Jamie focused on the beauty and joy in his life and all the small 'wins' his resolve and perseverance helped him attain. Jamie's ability to reframe his thinking and his overarching commitment to optimism is truly inspiring.
May 11, 2022
*Life and Limb* is a great true life mountaineering story. The first half is the climb and rescue, a story told with vividly descriptive writing and an avoidance of sentiment and religion.
The second half deals with Jamie Andrew’s climb back to physical functionality. This guy is a living testament to the power of positive thinking.
Hint: “You ‘ave very serioz frozbite.”
The second half deals with Jamie Andrew’s climb back to physical functionality. This guy is a living testament to the power of positive thinking.
Hint: “You ‘ave very serioz frozbite.”
October 27, 2017
Good story
I loved reading this story. Upsetting in parts and sad. Jamie is a very strong willed man. This story of jamie is emotional and joyfull after tragedy in his life. A must read. You won't be disappointed.
I loved reading this story. Upsetting in parts and sad. Jamie is a very strong willed man. This story of jamie is emotional and joyfull after tragedy in his life. A must read. You won't be disappointed.
July 5, 2020
An inspiring story of human resilience and how passion, energy, and positivity are all key elements to successful rehabilitation . Great for climbers, hikers, and lovers of outdoor adventures alike, and for Scots looking to support Scottish authors.
October 24, 2023
3.5
"Como eu poderia odiar esse lugar? Era tão bonito. A falha era nossa, não da montanha, que era imponente, selvagem e inocente de malicia, assim como o vento, a nuvem e a neve. Eu não poderia guardar rancor das montanhas."
"Como eu poderia odiar esse lugar? Era tão bonito. A falha era nossa, não da montanha, que era imponente, selvagem e inocente de malicia, assim como o vento, a nuvem e a neve. Eu não poderia guardar rancor das montanhas."
December 28, 2016
Beautifully written. The emotion, the imagery is all so clear. A wonderful recollection of how hope and joy and life can come even in the face of death and tragedy.
June 28, 2017
I really enjoyed this true story of a man who was severely injured in a climbing accident and became a quadruple amputee who continued his outdoors and fitness activities. Very inspiring story!
June 4, 2021
A tale of two limbs and of two halves. Still remember the line about their frozen hands slapping together sounding like two raw steaks.
September 30, 2021
When you talk about overcoming adversity this is the book to read. An incredible story told so well...from the climbing to the aftermath of that climb. A very blessed man.
August 9, 2023
What an amazing story of courage and tragedy. A well written story detailing the worse day of his life and how he overcame the consequences. A truly amazing person.
November 7, 2024
Very inspiring
March 15, 2025
inspiring and a good read
Well written almost unbelievable story of a world few will ever know. Jamie, thanks for sharing your story. Truly inspirational!
Well written almost unbelievable story of a world few will ever know. Jamie, thanks for sharing your story. Truly inspirational!
September 26, 2025
An amazing story of the will to live and how to overcome physical limitations
January 27, 2012
This was an interesting read. You get the story of Jamie's climbing adventures, the type of book I really enjoy, and then comes the details of the tragic climb that was to change his life forever. You can feel the tension of the two men stuck up on the mountain slowly freezing to death while weather conditions frustrate their rescuers. The details of his frostbite and treatment are quite shocking and it brings home to you just how dangerous climbing of any kind can be.
The second part of the book does drag a bit in places as you follow Jamie's recovery in the hospital but it is still a good read.
The second part of the book does drag a bit in places as you follow Jamie's recovery in the hospital but it is still a good read.
February 23, 2017
I'm currently training to be an Occupational Therapist and found the book a huge inspiration and has helped me to clarify that OT is a career I am very passionate about! Amazingly told story which had me hooked from the prologue. I admit before reading the book the feelings i had towards Jamie's disability were quite negative (how would he cope? It must be so hard) I had a very sympathetic view. HOWEVER after reading this book it was a complete Eye-opener!! The drive and determination, courage, attitude, support around him and the many laughs on the way made this by no means negative but an amazingly positive journey!
September 11, 2008
As much as anything I was struck by the people around Jamie Andrew.The friend that turns up with a box of crisps and slab of Iron Brew,the PGHM and staff in the Chamonix hospital,all the staff in the UK who helped him.The book reminded me again that the world is full of heroes whose daily work makes huge differences to other peoples lives and yet we rarely see or hear of them.
Jamie's efforts at rehabilitation remind me that in the pursuit of our dreams we are the biggest obstacle.
Jamie's efforts at rehabilitation remind me that in the pursuit of our dreams we are the biggest obstacle.
March 9, 2010
Life and Limb is a true story about a man, Jamie Andrew, who is a mountaineer and who survives five nights trapped on an Alpine mountain at 10,000 feet by a ferocious storm in 1999. Unnfortunately, his best friend, Jamie Fisher doesn't fair so well and dies. Jamie Andrew gets rescued and ends up losing both his hands and both his feet due to frostbite. We read about his struggles and his determination with laughter and with tears.
August 21, 2012
The first part of the book chronicles the author's rescue, and is gripping in itself. However, this is more a book about rehabilitation, rather than an exciting rescue story.
Not one for self pity, he faces his grief, returns to the site of his rescue, then starts rebuilding his former fitness levels, adjusts his life to his disabilities and carries on.
Am extraordinary recovery and inspirational tale.
Not one for self pity, he faces his grief, returns to the site of his rescue, then starts rebuilding his former fitness levels, adjusts his life to his disabilities and carries on.
Am extraordinary recovery and inspirational tale.
May 10, 2015
I found this a very interesting and enlightening book. I have a close family member who has just suffered a similar fate with loss of 4 limbs and this book has really helped us come to terms with the situation and look positively to the future.
Jamie is an extremely courageous and determined young man and an inspiration to us.
Jamie is an extremely courageous and determined young man and an inspiration to us.
June 28, 2016
This is not the sort of book I usually read, but it was chosen for our book group. Jamie Andrew describes how he came to suffer terrible injuries and how he then readjusted to life. His story is truly amazing. Despite having to have both hands and feet amputated he not only managed to re-learn how to do basic things, he took up sports - even mountaineering - again.
November 2, 2012
Truly inspiring story whether you like the Mountains or not. A true tale of the strength of the human spirit combined with an honest reflection of our flaws and failings. This is a superb read by an amazing man. I'm so glad he shared his story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews