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Everest: It's Not About the Summit
In 2014 Mount Everest was closed to all climbers after a devastating avalanche claimed the lives of sixteen Nepali mountain workers ferrying loads up through the Khumbu Icefall on the mountains southern approach through Nepal. Almost a year to the day later in late April 2015, the mountain was once more rocked to its core after a large earthquake struck Nepal sending shockwaves rippling across the Himalayas. These ripples left a trail of devastation in their path causing yet again another avalanche to wreak havoc on the mountain. This time, nineteen people lost their lives, on what would become the deadliest day in the mountain's history.Back in 2013, Ellis J Stewart a then 40-year-old from the UK had but one goal, to climb the mountain. Something he had targeted achieving for over 20 years. This book is the author’s story of those endeavours during the two most devastating years in the history of attempts on Everest.Not every climber who goes to Everest succeeds, not every climber returns to tell the tale, but to return unscathed after such a large loss of life is a story to be told. This is that It’s not about the summit is a very honest account of a lifelong dream shattered in tragic circumstances. From the streets of northern England through to the valleys and high mountains of Nepal, Stewart shared his story with thousands of followers on social media, winning over the hearts and minds of many. A groundswell of support sent Ellis to achieve his dream, not once but twice. Nobody could have anticipated the events that would follow. Events that would define Stewart in ways he couldn't possibly have imagined.This book invites you into an intoxicating world, one where the margin between success and failure is brutally slim. This is a moving book with tragedy and commitment to a cause as a very central theme. It is a real story about real people. Whether it’s your usual genre of book or not doesn't matter as it's basically a fantastic story. You don’t need to be a climber to enjoy this book at all. It has universal appeal and is a true inspirational cliffhanger for all. This book should be on the bookshelf of all active and armchair mountaineers alike.
364 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2016
328 people are currently reading
213 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
April 16, 2019
A serious slog of a read
I persevered through this entire book waiting for it to get started. To my way of thinking, it never did. To get a great fix on what I finally took to be the point, go to Harry Chapen: " it's got to be the going, not the getting there, that's good." It took a lot of reading until the author finally landed on a useful thought, but even then, others have expressed that same thought much better and long before him. For my two cents, this is a waste of reading time.
I persevered through this entire book waiting for it to get started. To my way of thinking, it never did. To get a great fix on what I finally took to be the point, go to Harry Chapen: " it's got to be the going, not the getting there, that's good." It took a lot of reading until the author finally landed on a useful thought, but even then, others have expressed that same thought much better and long before him. For my two cents, this is a waste of reading time.
April 18, 2020
I struggled with this book. It was poorly written and needed a good editor; for example, there were a lot of sentences where the opening phrase didn’t modify the subject of the sentence, thus causing a huge drop in clarity (e.g. “At twenty-two years old, her parents must have been...” — but her parents aren’t 22, she is).
I also found it hard to really like or understand the narrator when he made so many irresponsible decisions, in some cases hurtful ones, and generally didn’t show a lot of character other than persistence. For example, he lies about being late for his own wedding in order to get on a flight, then says “Who says lying doesn’t pay?” It was gross, not funny. He also really does not give enough credence to his second wife’s fear of him going back to Everest. When they were arguing about whether he should go back, he described her attitude as “defiance” multiple times, not seeing that she had really good points about how he might leave his kids without a dad. She seemed more like an obstacle than a beloved partner in his mind. At the very end of the book, even after he had *promised* her the second try would be it no matter what, he still leaves it open whether he’d try again.
I also got tired of the fact that he kept quoting all these comments people put on his Facebook posts. They were meaningful to him but won’t be for the typical reader, so I don’t think it was a good choice as a writer to fill out the book with Facebook comments.
The best part was when he wrote about actually hiking up to and being on the mountain.
I also found it hard to really like or understand the narrator when he made so many irresponsible decisions, in some cases hurtful ones, and generally didn’t show a lot of character other than persistence. For example, he lies about being late for his own wedding in order to get on a flight, then says “Who says lying doesn’t pay?” It was gross, not funny. He also really does not give enough credence to his second wife’s fear of him going back to Everest. When they were arguing about whether he should go back, he described her attitude as “defiance” multiple times, not seeing that she had really good points about how he might leave his kids without a dad. She seemed more like an obstacle than a beloved partner in his mind. At the very end of the book, even after he had *promised* her the second try would be it no matter what, he still leaves it open whether he’d try again.
I also got tired of the fact that he kept quoting all these comments people put on his Facebook posts. They were meaningful to him but won’t be for the typical reader, so I don’t think it was a good choice as a writer to fill out the book with Facebook comments.
The best part was when he wrote about actually hiking up to and being on the mountain.
April 16, 2018
I've read quite a few Everest and other mountaineering books, and I was interested in a different perspective as I knew Ellis had been there for two years of tragedy.
I found the book an odd read. Ellis is pretty likeable, but it's hard to see why Everest dominates his life, its not for a love of mountaineering or the outdoors as he climbs almost nothing else. And whilst I admire his determination to get there and achieve the goal, he expects others to fund his dream.
What I liked about this book is the reminder that nature has her own ideas about how these things go. I remember the reporting at the time, and it's interesting to read some behind the scene detail.
I also enjoyed his description of hiking in, as I hope to do that one day.
I found the book an odd read. Ellis is pretty likeable, but it's hard to see why Everest dominates his life, its not for a love of mountaineering or the outdoors as he climbs almost nothing else. And whilst I admire his determination to get there and achieve the goal, he expects others to fund his dream.
What I liked about this book is the reminder that nature has her own ideas about how these things go. I remember the reporting at the time, and it's interesting to read some behind the scene detail.
I also enjoyed his description of hiking in, as I hope to do that one day.
June 11, 2020
There's a reason this book was on Kindle Unlimited. Because it was full of whining and self-entitlement. What a stinker of a book.
June 24, 2020
Didn't finish this book as it was just self indulgent rubbish.
December 3, 2016
I devoured all the books on Everest I could get after returning from a visit to Nepal. This book is up there with the best of them. Takes courage to try after failure, and to still not make it must have been heartbreaking, but to still be able to tell the tale is worth more than making the summit.
April 3, 2018
Breathless writing of a breathtaking journey
For years I was held by the allure of Everest. I even trekked to stand on top of Kala Patthar at 5,545m - above Everest base camp, the Khumbu glacier and opposite Everest itself. But then I lost all interest and turned to other pursuits. Yet this book intrigued me and felt the urge to read Ellis' compelling story. And I am so happy I did.
A wonderful, uplifting and inspiring story of endeavour, adventure, tragedy and dogged determination. Ellis reminded me that a summit is but a moment. It is the climb that precedes that is all the more important and worthwhile. My admiration for those who aspire to climb Everest or any peak has been rekindled. As has my determination to persue my own life goals.
Read this book.
For years I was held by the allure of Everest. I even trekked to stand on top of Kala Patthar at 5,545m - above Everest base camp, the Khumbu glacier and opposite Everest itself. But then I lost all interest and turned to other pursuits. Yet this book intrigued me and felt the urge to read Ellis' compelling story. And I am so happy I did.
A wonderful, uplifting and inspiring story of endeavour, adventure, tragedy and dogged determination. Ellis reminded me that a summit is but a moment. It is the climb that precedes that is all the more important and worthwhile. My admiration for those who aspire to climb Everest or any peak has been rekindled. As has my determination to persue my own life goals.
Read this book.
September 25, 2019
Simply outstanding!
Ellis gives a true and honest account of the dangers of the most dangerous mountain in the world. While getting to the summit is the ultimate goal, the journey and what you learn along the way can be just as important. I hope one day you can try again Ellis, you now have some of the most valuable experience under your belt. I felt like I was with you every single moment on that mountain. Such a great read. Would highly recommend.
Ellis gives a true and honest account of the dangers of the most dangerous mountain in the world. While getting to the summit is the ultimate goal, the journey and what you learn along the way can be just as important. I hope one day you can try again Ellis, you now have some of the most valuable experience under your belt. I felt like I was with you every single moment on that mountain. Such a great read. Would highly recommend.
July 21, 2020
A wonderful book
I absolutely loved reading this story about the Author's love story with Everest. What a great book Mr. Stewart has written about his love affair with the most beautiful mountain in the world. The tragic events which occurred in 2014 and 2015 will always be Remembered throughout the climbing community. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and memories of this time in your life.
I absolutely loved reading this story about the Author's love story with Everest. What a great book Mr. Stewart has written about his love affair with the most beautiful mountain in the world. The tragic events which occurred in 2014 and 2015 will always be Remembered throughout the climbing community. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and memories of this time in your life.
September 24, 2019
Honest and easy to follow
You cannot help but enjoy Ellis' story. I was hooked from early in the book and taken along at a steady pace throughout the adventure. His openness and honesty shine through, a genuine bloke who had a dream. An immense challenge and great tragedy for so many that was dealt with in a respectful and open manner. A great book.
You cannot help but enjoy Ellis' story. I was hooked from early in the book and taken along at a steady pace throughout the adventure. His openness and honesty shine through, a genuine bloke who had a dream. An immense challenge and great tragedy for so many that was dealt with in a respectful and open manner. A great book.
April 8, 2017
My first Everest read
I great inspirational story from an "average" guy trying to climb Mount Everest. After one chapter I was hooked and read the rest of the book quickly to see how it would end.
I great inspirational story from an "average" guy trying to climb Mount Everest. After one chapter I was hooked and read the rest of the book quickly to see how it would end.
November 2, 2018
Not much
He didn't climb to the summit and he wasn't part of the disasters that took place, just being nearby doesn't count. There may have been some moral to the story but it got lost in all his whining.
He didn't climb to the summit and he wasn't part of the disasters that took place, just being nearby doesn't count. There may have been some moral to the story but it got lost in all his whining.
October 28, 2018
Inspirational and a really good read
Well done to Ellis for never giving up on the mountain, his dreams and grabbing every opportunity that came his way.
The book is really fun to read and it will definitely inspire it’s readers.
I definitely agree with the proverb ‘better to live as a tiger for one day than as a sheep for entire lifetime’. Why not have a crazy dream and spend your whole life ‘living’ to achieve it? What is the point of living a mundane life for the sake of it? Ellis definitely shows that there is an alternative to mundane and ordinary and anyone can get a taste of this alternative. Having visited Base Camp myself it was really great to relive it all through this book.
Well done to Ellis for never giving up on the mountain, his dreams and grabbing every opportunity that came his way.
The book is really fun to read and it will definitely inspire it’s readers.
I definitely agree with the proverb ‘better to live as a tiger for one day than as a sheep for entire lifetime’. Why not have a crazy dream and spend your whole life ‘living’ to achieve it? What is the point of living a mundane life for the sake of it? Ellis definitely shows that there is an alternative to mundane and ordinary and anyone can get a taste of this alternative. Having visited Base Camp myself it was really great to relive it all through this book.
November 4, 2018
I’ve had this book on my Kindle since March but hadn’t got around to reading it yet, but as I’m attending a book tour by the author soon I thought I’d better get it in beforehand and boy am I glad I did. WOW what a fantastic read. I’ve read this in one sitting today completely gripped by it. As a big fan of all things Everest and having been to Base Camp myself and visited Tibet too not to mention three tips to Kathmandu it was brilliant to be able to picture some of the places he mentions but even if you’ve never left your couch this is an excellent read. Written from the heart it’s a warts and all account of his life, his loves and his dream to stand on the top of Everest and everything he had to do to try to achieve that not just once but twice
April 2, 2020
A Metaphor for Life?
When considering what it is that defines those who do, and those who don't - those who look like it just happens for them, and those who struggle but never quite make it.... I think that this experience holds many of the answers. The life lessons contained in this journey will take time to digest, but I believe they can be invaluable for those of us who repeatedly struggle to accomplish those goals we convince ourselves our future happiness depends on, while failing to take in the significance of present moments. The Author does a wonderful job of demonstrating why the journey has more impact on our personal development than the destination.
When considering what it is that defines those who do, and those who don't - those who look like it just happens for them, and those who struggle but never quite make it.... I think that this experience holds many of the answers. The life lessons contained in this journey will take time to digest, but I believe they can be invaluable for those of us who repeatedly struggle to accomplish those goals we convince ourselves our future happiness depends on, while failing to take in the significance of present moments. The Author does a wonderful job of demonstrating why the journey has more impact on our personal development than the destination.
May 1, 2020
Great read for Everest Junkies
I almost quit reading it, I thought Ellis was off his rocker, but I couldn't stop. Ellis reminds me of something I heard Chris Stapleton say when accepting an award, He said something like 'See, Mom? Aren't you happy now I spent all that time in my room, playing my guitar?'. I came to admire Ellis's will and even obsession. Somehow, I understood him, even though I'd never felt the desire to achieve something so unattainable. I enjoyed reading about all he went through, the highs & lows, the joy, the devastation, all of it. I especially admire Tamara...she is a gem. Ellis is so right, it's about the journey, not the destination.
I almost quit reading it, I thought Ellis was off his rocker, but I couldn't stop. Ellis reminds me of something I heard Chris Stapleton say when accepting an award, He said something like 'See, Mom? Aren't you happy now I spent all that time in my room, playing my guitar?'. I came to admire Ellis's will and even obsession. Somehow, I understood him, even though I'd never felt the desire to achieve something so unattainable. I enjoyed reading about all he went through, the highs & lows, the joy, the devastation, all of it. I especially admire Tamara...she is a gem. Ellis is so right, it's about the journey, not the destination.
November 27, 2019
Compelling and inspirational story.
Having read many books about Everest and her taming by expeditions and tragedies on her slopes this story was completely different. One mans life long dream to reach her summit and the highs and lows that obsession brought to his life along the way is one many of us can identify with.
It was kind of fitting that he should witness at close quarters the mountains two worst tragedies ( in human terms) in her history.
Highly recommend reading this mans story even if you only have a passing interest in this genre of book.
Having read many books about Everest and her taming by expeditions and tragedies on her slopes this story was completely different. One mans life long dream to reach her summit and the highs and lows that obsession brought to his life along the way is one many of us can identify with.
It was kind of fitting that he should witness at close quarters the mountains two worst tragedies ( in human terms) in her history.
Highly recommend reading this mans story even if you only have a passing interest in this genre of book.
May 5, 2020
Unique Everest Story.
I was completely taken by this book.
Very much the human side of what it takes to try and get the opportunity to climb the highest mountain on this planet, especially when you come from an ordinary background, l like Ellis does.
His tenacity was amazing.
His choice of year's to attempt the climbs , proved to be extraordinary, and tragic in the extreme.
Well done Ellis.
I come from a mountaineering background, and I fully appreciated what you did.
Writing the book, was a summit reached in another way.
Great book.
I was completely taken by this book.
Very much the human side of what it takes to try and get the opportunity to climb the highest mountain on this planet, especially when you come from an ordinary background, l like Ellis does.
His tenacity was amazing.
His choice of year's to attempt the climbs , proved to be extraordinary, and tragic in the extreme.
Well done Ellis.
I come from a mountaineering background, and I fully appreciated what you did.
Writing the book, was a summit reached in another way.
Great book.
June 15, 2022
Only 20% into it. I just don't dig the guy's lack of integrity. I get it, we grow up figuring out how to get through life without money, we party, we take advantage of good situations/people sometimes, with no clear head for responsibility; but hopefully, we eventually grow up. What's the draw to Everest? To say you did it? I suppose that should be enough, but there is such a heavy focus on getting there at WHATEVER cost with no real delving into the WHY. Think that's about all I'm going to say at this point.
February 16, 2019
A dramatic inspiring tale of a man who never lost the spark of his dream! With countless obstacles and blockades between Ellis and his goal to climb Everest; he never stopped pursuing his mission! Twenty years preparing, and two years of heartbreaking natural disasters on Everest, Ellis teaches us how important it is to keep the fire inside of us alight! A must read story to inspire us to never give up on the journey to our goals!
September 29, 2019
Give up on sleep
This will be a book you can't out down. I have read many books about Everest adventures and this is one of my favorites. Why? Because of the honesty. (It was well written too!). Ellis shares his struggles as well as his triumphs with us. And, as you read, you feel like your having a heartfelt conversation with a friend.
I was sad to read about the loss of life, but thankful that the Lord spared Ellis's life so he could share this story with us.
This will be a book you can't out down. I have read many books about Everest adventures and this is one of my favorites. Why? Because of the honesty. (It was well written too!). Ellis shares his struggles as well as his triumphs with us. And, as you read, you feel like your having a heartfelt conversation with a friend.
I was sad to read about the loss of life, but thankful that the Lord spared Ellis's life so he could share this story with us.
November 18, 2020
Great read regarding Everest
I have read many books regarding Everest but none quite like this one. This was written by a common ordinary man who had a huge dream to climb Everest. He was willing to sacrifice everything to attempt the climb. He accomplished what most of us can only dream about. If you want to read a non technical book on attempting Everest, this is the book for you
I have read many books regarding Everest but none quite like this one. This was written by a common ordinary man who had a huge dream to climb Everest. He was willing to sacrifice everything to attempt the climb. He accomplished what most of us can only dream about. If you want to read a non technical book on attempting Everest, this is the book for you
November 29, 2020
Truly Inspirational
For me reading this was because it was my book club book and the author and I share the same home town. I say that because I might not have finished it otherwise. However I am glad a did because this is a truly remarkable story of tenacity and drive, with sombre heartache. I have trekked in Nepal which I found tough but this goes to levels I could never have achieved. Well worth reading.
For me reading this was because it was my book club book and the author and I share the same home town. I say that because I might not have finished it otherwise. However I am glad a did because this is a truly remarkable story of tenacity and drive, with sombre heartache. I have trekked in Nepal which I found tough but this goes to levels I could never have achieved. Well worth reading.
June 9, 2018
Inspiring read. Never ever give up on your dreams.
Gripping read. I felt devastated for Ellis the further I read into the book. Mother nature is boss I suppose and Ellis turned out be one of the lucky ones who made it home to his family. Well played though, from a fellow North East lad, get knocked down and we get back up and move on.
Gripping read. I felt devastated for Ellis the further I read into the book. Mother nature is boss I suppose and Ellis turned out be one of the lucky ones who made it home to his family. Well played though, from a fellow North East lad, get knocked down and we get back up and move on.
June 25, 2019
Great story. Honest writing. Incredible adventures, fraught with peril but mostly very inspiring. If I had been aware of your blog I would like to
your blog I would have enjoyed participating. I also greatly admire your wife and her support of your strong need to achieve your dream. I must say I couldn't have found it in me to be that brave.
your blog I would have enjoyed participating. I also greatly admire your wife and her support of your strong need to achieve your dream. I must say I couldn't have found it in me to be that brave.
December 2, 2019
it's not about the summit
It's a book worth to be read. Congrats Ellis! And thank you for sharing your experience in trying to reach the summit. Bringing into the center the process it's one of the best things of this story. Whether you're into hiking or mountain trek or not, this book will leave a mark in your spirit.
It's a book worth to be read. Congrats Ellis! And thank you for sharing your experience in trying to reach the summit. Bringing into the center the process it's one of the best things of this story. Whether you're into hiking or mountain trek or not, this book will leave a mark in your spirit.
November 2, 2021
Ellis, in my opinion comes across as a selfish, childish person.
Expecting everyone round him to fund his trips to Everest, quitting multiple jobs when he has a young family to support.
An unlikeable, unreliable type of person.
The story itself was longwinded and the more I read the most I disliked him.
Sorry mate but if you can't fund your dreams stop whinging and do something about it!
Expecting everyone round him to fund his trips to Everest, quitting multiple jobs when he has a young family to support.
An unlikeable, unreliable type of person.
The story itself was longwinded and the more I read the most I disliked him.
Sorry mate but if you can't fund your dreams stop whinging and do something about it!
October 16, 2017
Stewart book was published independently, and is his story of a couple of attempts to summit Everest. An ordinary man with a dream and the sheer desire to achieve that dream. I got a bit fed up though hearing about his constant struggle in his domestic and non mountaineering life. Only a three.
October 21, 2017
Great story
I loved this story and couldn't put it down. Many parts of the story made me hold my breath. What a determined brave man. Reading the story I felt I was there. I'm so glad he survived from the disaster. Read Ellis story I'm sure you won't be disappointed.
I loved this story and couldn't put it down. Many parts of the story made me hold my breath. What a determined brave man. Reading the story I felt I was there. I'm so glad he survived from the disaster. Read Ellis story I'm sure you won't be disappointed.
January 14, 2018
Not the kind of book that I would normally reach for but I had the pleasure of hearing Ellis present at a conference. Goals are an important part of life while the journey teaches us so much more. Enjoy
Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews