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Tears in the Wind: Triumph and Tragedy on America’s Highest Peak
An Extraordinary True Adventure Story
“This is an incredible account of what it takes, physically and emotionally, to take on a climb like Denali. The author endured so much on that mountain, and his description is vivid and emotional. I recommend this book to anyone. You don't have to be interested in climbing to enjoy this slice of adventure and terror. I could not recommend this book more!”-- K. Hymel.
In this riveting account of an expedition to climb Denali, the author describes how a childhood fascination with mountaineering led to the adventure of a lifetime. As an average middle-aged guy, he began mountain climbing as a pastime, eventually signing on with a guided group to attempt an ascent of Denali. Formerly called Mt. McKinley, Denali is the highest peak in North America and well known for its vicious winds and dreadfully cold weather.
During an expedition that was both triumphant and tragic, the team experienced the full force of the mountain’s fury. They were forced to face life and death on terms that had a lasting effect on each of them.
This is a rare peek into a world often shrouded in glamor and mystery. More than a description of the climb, this is an introspective look at the physical and mental demands of climbing a high mountain, and it provides thoughtful insight on the impact that this amazing adventure had on Larry and his family and friends.
Come along on a journey from armchair to the top of the continent, and share in the drama of this epic journey.
“This is an incredible account of what it takes, physically and emotionally, to take on a climb like Denali. The author endured so much on that mountain, and his description is vivid and emotional. I recommend this book to anyone. You don't have to be interested in climbing to enjoy this slice of adventure and terror. I could not recommend this book more!”-- K. Hymel.
In this riveting account of an expedition to climb Denali, the author describes how a childhood fascination with mountaineering led to the adventure of a lifetime. As an average middle-aged guy, he began mountain climbing as a pastime, eventually signing on with a guided group to attempt an ascent of Denali. Formerly called Mt. McKinley, Denali is the highest peak in North America and well known for its vicious winds and dreadfully cold weather.
During an expedition that was both triumphant and tragic, the team experienced the full force of the mountain’s fury. They were forced to face life and death on terms that had a lasting effect on each of them.
This is a rare peek into a world often shrouded in glamor and mystery. More than a description of the climb, this is an introspective look at the physical and mental demands of climbing a high mountain, and it provides thoughtful insight on the impact that this amazing adventure had on Larry and his family and friends.
Come along on a journey from armchair to the top of the continent, and share in the drama of this epic journey.
219 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 26, 2016
439 people are currently reading
211 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
November 16, 2017
Plain, unedited, good for beginners, not a 4+ star book
I checked out this book due to the high ratings and acclaim in the comments, thinking it would be something as well written as Into Thin Air. Boy, was I wrong. I am a little more than half way into the book, and I don't think I'll spend any more time plowing through plain, diary style recounting of day-to-day stuff (pitching tents, airing damp clothes, shifting cache, going to toilet, cooking and cleaning...completely mundane actions are addressed each day). I'm not criticizing it for the lack of thrilling action - tons of books have great things written about the less exciting days of mountaineers, peppering their accounts with profound reflection, vivid description, history, science, etc. This book tries, I'll give it that, but it is done with such lack of enthusiasm and depth, I simply can't hang on to find out whether he made it to the top or what adventure lay ahead. And I am the kind of reader who usually compulsively reads to the end to know how a whole story unfolds.
Wondering what publisher would publish such an obviously unedited, amateurish rambling account, I looked at the info page and saw that it was self-published. No wonder then.
This is perhaps appropriate for readers with zero knowledge of mountaineering (author explains a lot of terms, at length) and/or want to know every little single action on an expedition, from waking up, getting dressed, all to the way to taking off layers and climbing into a sleeping bag, every single day of the entry.
I checked out this book due to the high ratings and acclaim in the comments, thinking it would be something as well written as Into Thin Air. Boy, was I wrong. I am a little more than half way into the book, and I don't think I'll spend any more time plowing through plain, diary style recounting of day-to-day stuff (pitching tents, airing damp clothes, shifting cache, going to toilet, cooking and cleaning...completely mundane actions are addressed each day). I'm not criticizing it for the lack of thrilling action - tons of books have great things written about the less exciting days of mountaineers, peppering their accounts with profound reflection, vivid description, history, science, etc. This book tries, I'll give it that, but it is done with such lack of enthusiasm and depth, I simply can't hang on to find out whether he made it to the top or what adventure lay ahead. And I am the kind of reader who usually compulsively reads to the end to know how a whole story unfolds.
Wondering what publisher would publish such an obviously unedited, amateurish rambling account, I looked at the info page and saw that it was self-published. No wonder then.
This is perhaps appropriate for readers with zero knowledge of mountaineering (author explains a lot of terms, at length) and/or want to know every little single action on an expedition, from waking up, getting dressed, all to the way to taking off layers and climbing into a sleeping bag, every single day of the entry.
April 14, 2017
Interesting book, very honest in describing every aspect of the climb. This account of mountaineering on Denali for sure satisfied my curiosity about what such endeavor involves. Enjoyed the writing as well, even though once in a while I felt that an eye of editor would have helped, especially during passages that were somewhat repetitive.
October 14, 2020
Straightforward
A factual account of one man’s experience on Denali during an expedition turned deadly. This book reads as a matter-of-fact recollection.
A factual account of one man’s experience on Denali during an expedition turned deadly. This book reads as a matter-of-fact recollection.
February 23, 2019
Adventure Tales 101
If you have been spoiled by the likes of Jon Krakauer this book might bore you. The author feels the need to explain the meaning of terms like "cache" even though the word is so commonly used that it is sometimes applied to squirrels' preparations for winter. If you are a fan of adventure literature you might want to pass on this one.
If you have been spoiled by the likes of Jon Krakauer this book might bore you. The author feels the need to explain the meaning of terms like "cache" even though the word is so commonly used that it is sometimes applied to squirrels' preparations for winter. If you are a fan of adventure literature you might want to pass on this one.
August 2, 2016
Super book
This book is a must read. I have never climbed mountains but this book gives you great descriptions of each step up to the summit and down. Also, there are great life lessons in it for all persons.
This book is a must read. I have never climbed mountains but this book gives you great descriptions of each step up to the summit and down. Also, there are great life lessons in it for all persons.
July 15, 2016
A Gripping Tale
An amazing story of mountain climbing that will keep you reading well into the night. You feel like you are roped in with the rest of the climbers!
An amazing story of mountain climbing that will keep you reading well into the night. You feel like you are roped in with the rest of the climbers!
August 5, 2017
Good read
Interesting book about an average man and his conquest of Denali. Highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a quick book about mountaineering.
Interesting book about an average man and his conquest of Denali. Highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a quick book about mountaineering.
November 10, 2017
Nice account of a normal persons quest.
Fascinating saga.
Real life story from amateurs perspective. Hi ahead, write another book about Mt. Ranier.
Good job for first book.
Fascinating saga.
Real life story from amateurs perspective. Hi ahead, write another book about Mt. Ranier.
Good job for first book.
May 7, 2018
Very good account of one man's climb of Denali. Full review to come
January 6, 2021
Great book. I did have to read it with wrapped in a warm blanket with a hot drink in hand. I got so cold reading about his adventure.
October 18, 2025
An honest and harrowing tale of climbing the Denali. I read these because I would never climb a mountain myself.
June 1, 2017
Larry Semento, in “Tears of the Wind,” has written a passionate memoir of his climb to the summit of Mt. McKinley (or Denali, as it’s now known). Known for both the ferocious winds that swirl around its flanks, as well as the tears that fall from heartbroken climbers who are regularly disappointed with the outcome of their efforts, the Alaskan mountain is systematically explored by Semento as he describes his experiences.
There are many misgivings expressed in the author’s account. Prior to the climb he worries constantly about his technical ability, physical conditioning, long absence from his law practice and his family, and his ability to get along with the strangers that will be accompanying him. As the trek up the slopes takes place, he is anxious about the weather, the hard work ahead, his fear of failing, and why he decided to make the trip in the first place. He doesn’t need to worry because, as it turns out, he is totally capable of handling all his mental and physical challenges, including the death of an assistant leader of the climbing party.
I enjoyed the utilitarian aspect of the book. Semento goes into great detail as he describes the lengthy preparations, the necessity of keeping supplies readily available at different stages of the climb, the ability to function in numbingly cold
conditions, the preparation of meals, the boredom and disappointment of being confined to camp for lengthy periods because of bad weather, and the physical strain of and torture of the body while carrying heavy loads when making steep climbs.
I don’t mean utilitarian to sound boring, because the author is very adept at keeping the descriptions brief while being very illuminating. I, as the reader, never feel overwhelmed with detail but am appreciative of the vital information I am given. The description of the accident that killed his climbing mate is done without being maudlin or overly dramatic. There is, no doubt, heavy sorrow that descends on the climbing team but Semento leaves it to the reader to determine how much impact this mishap should have on the story.
I enjoyed this mountaineering account and applaud the author’s efforts at bringing it to the public’s attention. There is humanity and humility in his words and it is important to note Semento’s appreciation and love for his family as stated in his acknowledgments. Tremendous impact on his personal outlook that is palpable and profound is apparent at the conclusion of his adventure.
March 20, 2019
I devoured this book! Always in awe of ordinary folks, tackling extraordinary pursuits, specifically when it involves mountaineering on earth's tallest peaks. I'm forever grateful to have viewed the jagged mountains of the Italian/French Alps, from the highest ski accessible vantage point on Mount Blanc, western Europe's preeminent peak, some consider one of the Seven Summits. Like the author, my experience was over 20 years ago, yet in my mind, the concinnity of the panorama remains etched in perpetuity. That's where any similarities end. Author, Larry Semento, then attorney, 40-something husband, father of three, refers to himself as a "Weekend Warrior." A neophyte mountaineer, he decides to attempt to summit Mt. Denali, North America's highest beast, known for a brutal climate and limited window for ascent. His story is a compelling, capricious account, replete with statistical and geographic information. The inclusion of varied quotes at the start of each chapter was an anticipated bonus, appropriately setting the mood for what transpired next . Thank you, Larry Semento, for your decision to finally share your experience of triumph and heartache, with denuding transparency. I highly recommend this read, especially to fans s of Jon Krakauer's "Into Thin Air." Five star rating!
June 26, 2019
The sharing that the author so generously given in words that truly revealed his thoughts, feelings, tremendous fears and debilitating grief when his climbing team member ,Chris, went to his death while trying to reach him when he slipped and fell , Larry commenced an incredible self save by climbing back up to the ridge where
he slipped from is
epic As an armchair enthusiast of all books on climbing the seven summits as well as many other extreme mountaineering and adventure travel stories this take is at the top of a long list. I say this because even Krakauer lyrical prose is so fighting that I have read everything he has written, Larry's minute by minute description of his climb up to the summit of Denali and back down is so descriptive of his total experience that it have me a visceral reaction and a better understanding of a climbing experience. Also the quotes that he added at the beginning of the sections of his book have me personal help with the grief I struggle with daily after the death of my oldest son. And for that solace I am very grateful. I hope this review is a cogent explanation of my rating of Larry's incredible accomplishments.
he slipped from is
epic As an armchair enthusiast of all books on climbing the seven summits as well as many other extreme mountaineering and adventure travel stories this take is at the top of a long list. I say this because even Krakauer lyrical prose is so fighting that I have read everything he has written, Larry's minute by minute description of his climb up to the summit of Denali and back down is so descriptive of his total experience that it have me a visceral reaction and a better understanding of a climbing experience. Also the quotes that he added at the beginning of the sections of his book have me personal help with the grief I struggle with daily after the death of my oldest son. And for that solace I am very grateful. I hope this review is a cogent explanation of my rating of Larry's incredible accomplishments.
July 5, 2020
Enjoyed the book, not what I expected
This book was recommended by Amazon, probably because I have read some books by hikers and climbers as well as non-fiction taking place in Alaska. I admit to being hesitant to get the book because of a few bad reviews. I got the sample, and wanted more so I got tne kindle version.
I did enjoy reading the book. It felt like Larry had a story he wanted to tell about the good and bad experiences when he climbed Denali in 1998. I did enjoy this part. However, I wish that he wrote more about the people he climbed Denali with. I got to know him but came away knowing less about the others.
I think he spent a little too much time writing about other climbers that were not on his expedition nor were they on Denali that summer. It was a distraction.
A map of Denali and the route he took would have helped.
He finishes by writing about how Denali changed him. I found this section a little confusing.
Even though I was disappointed, I am glad I read the book. The book is on the shorter side and an easy read. I wish I could give the book 3.5 stars.
This book was recommended by Amazon, probably because I have read some books by hikers and climbers as well as non-fiction taking place in Alaska. I admit to being hesitant to get the book because of a few bad reviews. I got the sample, and wanted more so I got tne kindle version.
I did enjoy reading the book. It felt like Larry had a story he wanted to tell about the good and bad experiences when he climbed Denali in 1998. I did enjoy this part. However, I wish that he wrote more about the people he climbed Denali with. I got to know him but came away knowing less about the others.
I think he spent a little too much time writing about other climbers that were not on his expedition nor were they on Denali that summer. It was a distraction.
A map of Denali and the route he took would have helped.
He finishes by writing about how Denali changed him. I found this section a little confusing.
Even though I was disappointed, I am glad I read the book. The book is on the shorter side and an easy read. I wish I could give the book 3.5 stars.
January 1, 2019
There are lots of other mountaineering books out there, but what sets this one apart is that it isn't by some expert or well known climber, so feels more relatable to the average Joe climber. Sure, someone like Jon Krakauer may be more eloquent, and have more mountains under his belt, but lets face it, how many of us can relate to his level of climbing proficiency? When Larry talks about his anxiety on the cliff edge, you understand it, and when he writes about cold and pain, you feel it. His writing style is really easy to read, which is actually surprising given that he is a lawyer by trade. If you like climbing stories, definitely add this to your to-read list.
September 5, 2020
Tradegy and self discovery in Denali
I read all mountain climbing stories I can having dabbled in the activity climbing Kilimanjaro and up high in the western US. The author walks us through his experiences leading up to the climb, sharing his personal thoughts and anxieties of the moments on the mountain and the tragedy itself. This is a well written honest account that puts the climbing experience in perspective. I found the authors accounts on his climbing experience after Denali very telling in terms of the psychological effects on his Denali experience. I really enjoyed the story.
I read all mountain climbing stories I can having dabbled in the activity climbing Kilimanjaro and up high in the western US. The author walks us through his experiences leading up to the climb, sharing his personal thoughts and anxieties of the moments on the mountain and the tragedy itself. This is a well written honest account that puts the climbing experience in perspective. I found the authors accounts on his climbing experience after Denali very telling in terms of the psychological effects on his Denali experience. I really enjoyed the story.
November 8, 2019
This was an interesting account of a climbing expedition to Denali, though it was rather poorly written and needed a proofreader. As a hiker, the content appealed to me, but I wasn't enthralled the same way that I was with Into Thin Air or other mountaineering books. It provided some insight into what it was like for an average person to climb a forbidding and dangerous mountain with training and some former experience, but it was full of repetition and got bogged down in spots. But it was given to me by someone who throughly enjoyed the book, so perhaps I am super critical.
November 4, 2018
Awesome journey with the author
Beautifully done story of an epic journey to .my favorite mountain. I will never climb but now I have some notion of why a special few are compelled to do so. Brought back memories of a time I spent in McKinley park long ago and enjoyed descriptions of the incredibly beautiful visual feast that were so inspiring.
Beautifully done story of an epic journey to .my favorite mountain. I will never climb but now I have some notion of why a special few are compelled to do so. Brought back memories of a time I spent in McKinley park long ago and enjoyed descriptions of the incredibly beautiful visual feast that were so inspiring.
June 6, 2019
I enjoyed this book about an every-day guy climbing mountains. This book focused on Denali and how the hardship and tragedy he encountered on the mountain changed his life. A well-written, simple book without the depth of Into Thin Air. I liked how he wrapped up the book by letting the reader know where his life went after the climb.
March 2, 2021
Enjoyable well written informative read. Makes you wonder why someone would pay all that money to do something so dangerous especially when they have a family at home. Thank goodness they have their guides, park rangers, 1st responders & others to save their butts when they get into accidents either due to inexperience, physical conditioning or just bad luck. Not for me
June 4, 2016
Wow!
I read the entire book today! I was quickly engrossed into his story. I felt like I was "safely" on the journey with him. I wanted to know what we would be doing & feeling next! I feel like I have a new appreciation & understanding of he went through.
I read the entire book today! I was quickly engrossed into his story. I felt like I was "safely" on the journey with him. I wanted to know what we would be doing & feeling next! I feel like I have a new appreciation & understanding of he went through.
October 19, 2018
One-dimensional and very basic writing. None of the characters on the climb were developed outside of the author. Very little specific detail was given about anything, and the main tragedy of the book was glossed over in about 10-15 pages.
October 19, 2018
Boring
Not much happens in this story. The main event, or tragedy, was over in a blink of the eye and nothing else eventful took place so was hardly worth a book. The author does write well so that's why three stars on a one star story.
Not much happens in this story. The main event, or tragedy, was over in a blink of the eye and nothing else eventful took place so was hardly worth a book. The author does write well so that's why three stars on a one star story.
October 14, 2019
In general, it reads like a long-form high school essay with a 200 page requirement. As evidenced by its 150 pages of slow rising action before the very short climactic event, it would have benefited from a few more drafts with the editors. But unlike climbing Denali, at least it goes by quick!
August 19, 2020
A fast, enjoyable read. Well-written other than some typos here and there. One of the best Kindle Unlimited books I’ve read and of course I always enjoy a good adventure story, read from the comfort of my sofa.
September 26, 2020
Enjoyable story
An eady read. Nice story. It does not go into many of the boring details other climbing story's go imto6, which is nice.
The human aspect is good.
Enjoyed the book.
An eady read. Nice story. It does not go into many of the boring details other climbing story's go imto6, which is nice.
The human aspect is good.
Enjoyed the book.
December 30, 2020
Triumph/tragedy
Perfect description of this marvelous book. I enjoyed it from start to finish. It made me realize that it’s important to dream and then work hard to make that dream come true.
Perfect description of this marvelous book. I enjoyed it from start to finish. It made me realize that it’s important to dream and then work hard to make that dream come true.
July 31, 2017
Mountain Man
This book was the author's explanation of the reason he climbed Denali and the effect it had on him. His affect seemed off, since a man in his party
died
This book was the author's explanation of the reason he climbed Denali and the effect it had on him. His affect seemed off, since a man in his party
died
January 12, 2018
Thrilling story. The writing is pretty fragmented but the quality of the story balances out the writing. An average dude doing extraordinary things.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews