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Up: My Life Journey to the Top of Everest
My eyes lifted to the horizon and the unmistakable snowy outline of Everest.
Everest, the mountain of my childhood dreams. A mountain that has haunted me my whole life. A mountain I have seen hundreds of times in photographs and films but never in real life.
She looked angry.
In April 2018, seasoned adventurer Ben Fogle and Olympic cycling gold medallist Victoria Pendleton, along with mountaineer Kenton Cool, took on their most exhausting challenge yet – climbing Everest for the British Red Cross to highlight the environmental challenges mountains face. It would be harrowing and exhilarating in equal measure as they walked the fine line between life and death 8,000 metres above sea level.
For Ben, the seven-week expedition into the death zone was to become the adventure of a lifetime, as well as a humbling and enlightening journey. For his wife Marina, holding the family together at home, it was an agonising wait for news. Together, they dedicated the experience to their son, Willem Fogle, stillborn at eight months.
Cradling little Willem to say goodbye, Ben and Marina made a promise to live brightly. To embrace every day. To always smile. To be positive and to inspire. And from the depths of their grief and dedication, Ben’s Everest dream was born.
Up, from here the only way was Up.
Part memoir, part thrilling adventure, Ben and Marina’s account of his ascent to the roof of the world is told with their signature humour and warmth, as well as with profound compassion.
Everest, the mountain of my childhood dreams. A mountain that has haunted me my whole life. A mountain I have seen hundreds of times in photographs and films but never in real life.
She looked angry.
In April 2018, seasoned adventurer Ben Fogle and Olympic cycling gold medallist Victoria Pendleton, along with mountaineer Kenton Cool, took on their most exhausting challenge yet – climbing Everest for the British Red Cross to highlight the environmental challenges mountains face. It would be harrowing and exhilarating in equal measure as they walked the fine line between life and death 8,000 metres above sea level.
For Ben, the seven-week expedition into the death zone was to become the adventure of a lifetime, as well as a humbling and enlightening journey. For his wife Marina, holding the family together at home, it was an agonising wait for news. Together, they dedicated the experience to their son, Willem Fogle, stillborn at eight months.
Cradling little Willem to say goodbye, Ben and Marina made a promise to live brightly. To embrace every day. To always smile. To be positive and to inspire. And from the depths of their grief and dedication, Ben’s Everest dream was born.
Up, from here the only way was Up.
Part memoir, part thrilling adventure, Ben and Marina’s account of his ascent to the roof of the world is told with their signature humour and warmth, as well as with profound compassion.
288 pages, Hardcover
Published January 1, 2018
88 people are currently reading
608 people want to read
About the author
Ben Fogle
39 books115 followersBen Fogle is a presenter, writer and adventurer. His achievements include racing 160 miles across the Sahara desert in the notorious Marathon Des Sables.
He has rowed the Atlantic Ocean in 49 days and crossed Antarctica in a foot race to the South Pole.
He has presented numerous programmes including BBC’s Animal Park, Wild In Africa, Countryfile, Crufts, One Man and His Dog and Extreme Dreams.
He writes regularly for the Sunday Telegraph and the Independent and has written four bestselling books. Ben’s latest book, The Accidental Adventurer will be published by Transworld in 2011.
He is an ambassador for WWF, Medecins Sans Frontier and Tusk, a fellow of the Royal Geographical Society and the President of the Campaign for National Parks.
Ben is a special correspondent for NBC News in the United States, reporting from all over the world for Today, Dateline and MSNBC Nightly News.
http://www.benfogle.com/biography
He has rowed the Atlantic Ocean in 49 days and crossed Antarctica in a foot race to the South Pole.
He has presented numerous programmes including BBC’s Animal Park, Wild In Africa, Countryfile, Crufts, One Man and His Dog and Extreme Dreams.
He writes regularly for the Sunday Telegraph and the Independent and has written four bestselling books. Ben’s latest book, The Accidental Adventurer will be published by Transworld in 2011.
He is an ambassador for WWF, Medecins Sans Frontier and Tusk, a fellow of the Royal Geographical Society and the President of the Campaign for National Parks.
Ben is a special correspondent for NBC News in the United States, reporting from all over the world for Today, Dateline and MSNBC Nightly News.
http://www.benfogle.com/biography
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
March 25, 2021
I had no prior knowledge of Ben Fogle before tackling this highly personalized mountaineering adventure/self discovery tome, so was unaware of his notoriety as a British TV adventure/reality star, environmentalist, activist and advocate for the Red Cross. When he tackled Mount Everest in 2018 I was not following him on social media as he worked through his novice fumbles, physical insufficiency and nearly crippling self doubts. All in all, he seems a decent sort of chap, a family-centric guy with a good heart and head on his shoulders.
As Fogle relates this tale of preparing for, and succeeding at, his climb of the great peak, the book alternates between his own narrative of the adventure with that of his wife, Marina, who was hunkering down in London a continent away with the couple's children, wondering at any given time with obvious angst about whether her spouse was all right, injured, or dead. This dual perspective lends an air of old-school British stiff-upper-lipdom, something like Captain Scott's letters to his wife in England as he was trying to reach the South Pole. Fogle also tells us, quite often, that the recent death of his stillborn son was one of the motivators driving him to this life-affirming adventure dream. Everest had enthralled him since childhood.
So, the deal is this: I'm not going to spend much time on the review. I love mountaineering adventure books, and tend to like them best when they stick to the adventure, when they're vividly detailed about the fauna of the places, the rudiments and challenges of the climbs, the cameraderie and rivalries of the crews, and -- within reason -- the climber's philosophical thoughts on why humans do these things. Ben does a mostly pedestrian job at hitting these marks, occasionally offering some engaging episodes -- such as harrowing crossings of deep crevasses on wobbly ladder bridges at night, or cowering in mortal fear waiting out an explosive thunderstorm while literally inside the storm cloud. But the way he integrates the self-confessional material, the family backstories, and the seemingly endless litany of "making a difference" and "follow your dream"-style Hallmark Card affirmation cliches just seemed clunky and platitudinous, even cringey. Overall, this was, for me, a mostly frustrating and exasperating account. You could probably make this a group read at the normie Republican women's book and tea club social and everybody would be happy with it, apart from the unexpected swipe Marina takes at Trump, which, even as much as I hate the guy, probably should have been edited out.
About 20 percent of this was worth reading, so two stars out of five seems fair.
EG/KR@KY 2021
As Fogle relates this tale of preparing for, and succeeding at, his climb of the great peak, the book alternates between his own narrative of the adventure with that of his wife, Marina, who was hunkering down in London a continent away with the couple's children, wondering at any given time with obvious angst about whether her spouse was all right, injured, or dead. This dual perspective lends an air of old-school British stiff-upper-lipdom, something like Captain Scott's letters to his wife in England as he was trying to reach the South Pole. Fogle also tells us, quite often, that the recent death of his stillborn son was one of the motivators driving him to this life-affirming adventure dream. Everest had enthralled him since childhood.
So, the deal is this: I'm not going to spend much time on the review. I love mountaineering adventure books, and tend to like them best when they stick to the adventure, when they're vividly detailed about the fauna of the places, the rudiments and challenges of the climbs, the cameraderie and rivalries of the crews, and -- within reason -- the climber's philosophical thoughts on why humans do these things. Ben does a mostly pedestrian job at hitting these marks, occasionally offering some engaging episodes -- such as harrowing crossings of deep crevasses on wobbly ladder bridges at night, or cowering in mortal fear waiting out an explosive thunderstorm while literally inside the storm cloud. But the way he integrates the self-confessional material, the family backstories, and the seemingly endless litany of "making a difference" and "follow your dream"-style Hallmark Card affirmation cliches just seemed clunky and platitudinous, even cringey. Overall, this was, for me, a mostly frustrating and exasperating account. You could probably make this a group read at the normie Republican women's book and tea club social and everybody would be happy with it, apart from the unexpected swipe Marina takes at Trump, which, even as much as I hate the guy, probably should have been edited out.
About 20 percent of this was worth reading, so two stars out of five seems fair.
EG/KR@KY 2021
October 19, 2018
Wow what a book! , THE best book I’ve read all year, and I read a lot of books!.
A big admirer of Ben Fogle and an avid follower of all things Everest, including having completed the Everest Base Camp Trek two years ago myself, this was always going to be a book I’d want to read but it way surpassed even my expectations. I started this book at 2pm and here I’m writing my review at 9.30pm and really sad to be finished it. This is not just a book about Ben’s Everest challenge. It’s an engaging read, that will make you laugh and cry, while giving a very interesting insight into Ben’s family and life, and all that it takes to climb the highest mountain in the world. The story is intriguing but it’s the writing and delivery that sucks you in from the off. Fantastic read. If I could I give it 10 stars I would
A big admirer of Ben Fogle and an avid follower of all things Everest, including having completed the Everest Base Camp Trek two years ago myself, this was always going to be a book I’d want to read but it way surpassed even my expectations. I started this book at 2pm and here I’m writing my review at 9.30pm and really sad to be finished it. This is not just a book about Ben’s Everest challenge. It’s an engaging read, that will make you laugh and cry, while giving a very interesting insight into Ben’s family and life, and all that it takes to climb the highest mountain in the world. The story is intriguing but it’s the writing and delivery that sucks you in from the off. Fantastic read. If I could I give it 10 stars I would
January 21, 2019
I got this, having read about Ben’s crossing the Atlantic and Antarctic race. I like the perspective he provides to the adventure he undertakes; honest and, in many ways, exposed. In this manner, Up was no different, and I enjoyed reading about the psychological journey as well as the physical one. I also liked Marina’s point of view waiting on the sidelines, which was something new and different.
However, I was disappointed with this book for many reasons. It felt rushed.
The practical and technical elements lacked the detail found in previous books and the preparation phases were glossed over. I wonder if I would have felt the same if I had not read and judged this against previous books?
The relationships were never really satisfactorily developed. Again, previous books had this and helped you empathise and be a part of that journey too. I realise this was Ben’s journey but the others there were very much an afterthought. I felt silly to realise about 3/4 of the way through that they had named individual Sherpas travelling with them as they were only really referred to as a collective. There was one part were Mark the cameraman was not mentioned for a whole dramatic section where, even as a minor part of Ben’s little world, his presence should have been noted. I started flicking back thinking I’d missed his departure at some point (I hadn’t).
I feel cheated that the descent is summarised and we don’t hear from Ben about his arrival at Camp 2 or at Base Camp (there is a picture though!). We hear about the fog later, and get Marina’s view more on his return, but having invested in that journey with him where is his view on the rest of the descent (we’re left part-way through) and his wait and journey home?
It’s also repetitive. That’s my biggest problem with the book. I won’t bore readers with examples, these will become evident upon reading, however thoughts, phrases, descriptions were all repeated within the same page, same chapter and often several times throughout the book. This can be done with themes that run through a book, but, unfortunately, this was more than just themes. I felt Ben was trying to drive home his point too much in that I started to skim read sections, thinking ‘okay I get it. I read this earlier’. The points were not particularly elaborated in when said again, nor revealing anything more, or taking us on a journey; just more of the same told slightly differently to the point where some starts to feel preachy (even though I’d like to think I’m on a similar wavelength on much of it). Words and phrases began to lose their impact from repetition, such as “fatal” and “surreal”. It could have done with a good editor who should surely pick all this up (and a thesaurus!). It reminded me of Joey’s speech in ‘Friends’: “having and giving and sharing...” etc!
Perhaps the truth lies within as we are told by Marina how Ben struggled to write the book, how his brain may have been affected in those few months following the climb, and about a publishers deadline. It would have been better to miss the deadline and take the time to go away from the writing once ‘finished’ and return to it later (get someone to check it who will provide real constructive criticism), and produce a better book. At least it was on offer.
In summary, I’m glad I’ve read it but I won’t be re-reading it. Rather than add it to my book collection, I may just pass this one on to a charity shop.
However, I was disappointed with this book for many reasons. It felt rushed.
The practical and technical elements lacked the detail found in previous books and the preparation phases were glossed over. I wonder if I would have felt the same if I had not read and judged this against previous books?
The relationships were never really satisfactorily developed. Again, previous books had this and helped you empathise and be a part of that journey too. I realise this was Ben’s journey but the others there were very much an afterthought. I felt silly to realise about 3/4 of the way through that they had named individual Sherpas travelling with them as they were only really referred to as a collective. There was one part were Mark the cameraman was not mentioned for a whole dramatic section where, even as a minor part of Ben’s little world, his presence should have been noted. I started flicking back thinking I’d missed his departure at some point (I hadn’t).
I feel cheated that the descent is summarised and we don’t hear from Ben about his arrival at Camp 2 or at Base Camp (there is a picture though!). We hear about the fog later, and get Marina’s view more on his return, but having invested in that journey with him where is his view on the rest of the descent (we’re left part-way through) and his wait and journey home?
It’s also repetitive. That’s my biggest problem with the book. I won’t bore readers with examples, these will become evident upon reading, however thoughts, phrases, descriptions were all repeated within the same page, same chapter and often several times throughout the book. This can be done with themes that run through a book, but, unfortunately, this was more than just themes. I felt Ben was trying to drive home his point too much in that I started to skim read sections, thinking ‘okay I get it. I read this earlier’. The points were not particularly elaborated in when said again, nor revealing anything more, or taking us on a journey; just more of the same told slightly differently to the point where some starts to feel preachy (even though I’d like to think I’m on a similar wavelength on much of it). Words and phrases began to lose their impact from repetition, such as “fatal” and “surreal”. It could have done with a good editor who should surely pick all this up (and a thesaurus!). It reminded me of Joey’s speech in ‘Friends’: “having and giving and sharing...” etc!
Perhaps the truth lies within as we are told by Marina how Ben struggled to write the book, how his brain may have been affected in those few months following the climb, and about a publishers deadline. It would have been better to miss the deadline and take the time to go away from the writing once ‘finished’ and return to it later (get someone to check it who will provide real constructive criticism), and produce a better book. At least it was on offer.
In summary, I’m glad I’ve read it but I won’t be re-reading it. Rather than add it to my book collection, I may just pass this one on to a charity shop.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 20, 2019
As Fogle sat down at the table for a dinner at the Festival of Speed at Goodwood, he noticed that the space next to him was empty. The name said Victoria Gardener, someone he had never heard of. About 30 minutes later the person who was occupying that seat ran in and sat down. Turns out he had heard of her, but she was better known as Victoria Pendleton, the multiple gold medal-winning cyclist. They got chatting and hatched a plan together to head up the highest mountain on Earth. To do this Fogle needed to do two things, the first was to find someone who could help them do it. That was fairly straightforward as he roped in mountaineer Kenton Cool. The second was to persuade his wife, Marina that it was a really good idea…
It took a little persuasion, but she gave him the green light to prepare for the expedition. They would need to train in the Alps and other high mountain ranges before even making an attempt on the mountain and the team headed to La Paz in Bolivia. The plan was to conquer four mountains, with the final one being the 6500m Illimani which is a significant portion of what they would experience on Everest. This would give them the time that they needed to assess their own and the other team members performance at altitude. This was essential as the moment they went above the death zone on Everest all that preparation would be the fine line between succeeding and death.
The driving force behind Fogle in all the training and over the seven-week expedition to the roof of the world were the promises that he had made with Marina as he cradled his stillborn son, Willem. To be positive, to inspire, to embrace each day, to always smile, to live brightly and something that his grandmother had taught him, to always look up. And knowing that his family were waiting at home for him to return, gave him the inner strength that he needed.
Overall it is not a bad travel book, but it is as much about his personal journey and the relationship he has with Marina and their two children. Their stability means he has the chance to take on some amazing adventures, this being one of them. Having part of the book written by Marina is a nice touch too, she writes eloquently about the stresses and strains of having a husband most of the way up a mountain. We get so used to hearing about that author's adventure, that we forget the normal life they have left behind. Still, an immense effort to stand on the roof of the world and a fitting tribute to his stillborn son.
It took a little persuasion, but she gave him the green light to prepare for the expedition. They would need to train in the Alps and other high mountain ranges before even making an attempt on the mountain and the team headed to La Paz in Bolivia. The plan was to conquer four mountains, with the final one being the 6500m Illimani which is a significant portion of what they would experience on Everest. This would give them the time that they needed to assess their own and the other team members performance at altitude. This was essential as the moment they went above the death zone on Everest all that preparation would be the fine line between succeeding and death.
The driving force behind Fogle in all the training and over the seven-week expedition to the roof of the world were the promises that he had made with Marina as he cradled his stillborn son, Willem. To be positive, to inspire, to embrace each day, to always smile, to live brightly and something that his grandmother had taught him, to always look up. And knowing that his family were waiting at home for him to return, gave him the inner strength that he needed.
Overall it is not a bad travel book, but it is as much about his personal journey and the relationship he has with Marina and their two children. Their stability means he has the chance to take on some amazing adventures, this being one of them. Having part of the book written by Marina is a nice touch too, she writes eloquently about the stresses and strains of having a husband most of the way up a mountain. We get so used to hearing about that author's adventure, that we forget the normal life they have left behind. Still, an immense effort to stand on the roof of the world and a fitting tribute to his stillborn son.
March 10, 2019
I like Ben, he's good for the armchair adventurer. He's been on a boat, to the pole and now up a hill. That's downplaying all of it. Climbing Everest is his childhood dream and this book tells of his plans and prep and then the frustrations and dangers of actually doing it.
Ben writes very much as I imagine he speaks to himself - very positive but with a philosophical rambling. It's this that makes the book quite repetitive. At one point I had to check that I hadn't accidentally skipped back 20 pages as I was sure I was reading the same phrases. If anything it could have done with more of Marina's intervals. She comes across as the more practical member of the family holding things together.
Ben writes very much as I imagine he speaks to himself - very positive but with a philosophical rambling. It's this that makes the book quite repetitive. At one point I had to check that I hadn't accidentally skipped back 20 pages as I was sure I was reading the same phrases. If anything it could have done with more of Marina's intervals. She comes across as the more practical member of the family holding things together.
April 10, 2019
An incredibly inspiring read that I could put down. You experience a range of emotions from sadness, joy to fear! Ben writes like he is speaking to you and you feel like you are taking every step on the journey to the top of Everest with him. I loved Marina’s parts too where you realise just what an effect this expedition had on her and the children.
Highly recommend this book.
Keep looking up!
Highly recommend this book.
Keep looking up!
April 19, 2021
(I should say I had no idea who this guy is...he's on TV in the UK I guess?) Most of this book is Ben blathering on attempting to justify and rationalize his selfish and self centered behavior with both syrupy schmaltz about the wonderful wife and kids he leaves behind all the time while he's traipsing around the world trying to kill himself and worn out I-gotta-be-me-live-life-to-the-fullest cliches. He's clearly an adrenaline addict who can't live in the old boring world the rest of us do. (my favorite was the part where he happily tells the wife that Great news, honey, he's found a sponsor to pay his way to Everest so "they" don't have to take out a second mortgage) There's a few pages of the actual climb that were horrifying enough to give us folks who get some twisted pleasure out of reading about these lunatics a thrill but probably not enough to wade through the entire thing.
April 23, 2019
The person who risks nothing, does nothing, is nothing!
Just keep looking UP!
Ben Fogle has long been an inspiration for me. A constant face on BBC with incredible series on nature and stories of non-conformity living. Someone I can relate to slightly, although his feats are incredible. I have taken risks with my lifestyle and I have always felt alive because of them.
Up, follows Ben's story as he attempts to summit Mount Everest. The book highlights the drastic range of emotions and demons which were thrown at him through the training, preparation, ascent and descent from the roof of the world. It is a very dramatic read at times
The thing I love most about this book and Ben is that he is your average man. He is not a superstar nor world famous athlete, he is simply a family man who believes and trusts himself. Who works incredibly hard to achieve the personal goals he sets himself and also surrounds himself with like minded people who support and love him for who is he, not who society tells him to be.
I couldn't help but feel admiration and be in awe of the way he has fought adversity, not only for the climb but also throughout his life. Nothing seemed to break his resolve! Perseverance through the hardest of times. Losing a child through still-birth, being stabbed, fear of heights.
Also, the book shows the perspective of his wife, Marina, who struggles with her own battles of worry, anxiety and love whilst Ben undertakes such a mammoth task. I sometimes forget how my parents must feel that I am constantly away from the country.
As well as such an incredible story line I really love how he writes. He pays so much homage to those who have climbed before him with both success and not. The way he pays respect to those who have sacrificed their lives in an attempt to realize their dreams. Also the love he has for the sherpas, who make it all possible.
If you feel like you need a kick in the bum to push yourself or an extra boost to take risk you have been thinking about then this book is for you. I loved reading about all the troubled times from his life and how he overcome them all his patience, focus and love.
Most inspiring book I have read for a long time!
Just keep looking UP!
Ben Fogle has long been an inspiration for me. A constant face on BBC with incredible series on nature and stories of non-conformity living. Someone I can relate to slightly, although his feats are incredible. I have taken risks with my lifestyle and I have always felt alive because of them.
Up, follows Ben's story as he attempts to summit Mount Everest. The book highlights the drastic range of emotions and demons which were thrown at him through the training, preparation, ascent and descent from the roof of the world. It is a very dramatic read at times
The thing I love most about this book and Ben is that he is your average man. He is not a superstar nor world famous athlete, he is simply a family man who believes and trusts himself. Who works incredibly hard to achieve the personal goals he sets himself and also surrounds himself with like minded people who support and love him for who is he, not who society tells him to be.
I couldn't help but feel admiration and be in awe of the way he has fought adversity, not only for the climb but also throughout his life. Nothing seemed to break his resolve! Perseverance through the hardest of times. Losing a child through still-birth, being stabbed, fear of heights.
Also, the book shows the perspective of his wife, Marina, who struggles with her own battles of worry, anxiety and love whilst Ben undertakes such a mammoth task. I sometimes forget how my parents must feel that I am constantly away from the country.
As well as such an incredible story line I really love how he writes. He pays so much homage to those who have climbed before him with both success and not. The way he pays respect to those who have sacrificed their lives in an attempt to realize their dreams. Also the love he has for the sherpas, who make it all possible.
If you feel like you need a kick in the bum to push yourself or an extra boost to take risk you have been thinking about then this book is for you. I loved reading about all the troubled times from his life and how he overcome them all his patience, focus and love.
Most inspiring book I have read for a long time!
June 16, 2022
The Audiobook Version:
10 Minutes in…”I love my family so much it makes me cry…”
1 Hour in…”I didn’t realise how much I love my family. My children. I was overcome with so much emotion…I wept”
1h45m in…”I really believe that life is for the living. To explore. To always look forward…but when I am away from home, I realise how much I miss my wife…and I was overwhelmed with emotions and I cried…”
Marina (The Wife):
“I love my husband. I love his bravery. I love his sense of adventure. I love how he…”
Fast Forward EVERY time she narrates. “Oh, sweet Jesus…save me from the perils of this woman’s waffling”
### IN SHORT ###
2 (of some of the worst) Libs crushing your soul with all over warm fuzziness, gut aching slobber, “Don’t cry mommy” chin drizzle. Getting to the end of this book felt like a bigger challenge than Fogle summiting Everest.
10 Minutes in…”I love my family so much it makes me cry…”
1 Hour in…”I didn’t realise how much I love my family. My children. I was overcome with so much emotion…I wept”
1h45m in…”I really believe that life is for the living. To explore. To always look forward…but when I am away from home, I realise how much I miss my wife…and I was overwhelmed with emotions and I cried…”
Marina (The Wife):
“I love my husband. I love his bravery. I love his sense of adventure. I love how he…”
Fast Forward EVERY time she narrates. “Oh, sweet Jesus…save me from the perils of this woman’s waffling”
### IN SHORT ###
2 (of some of the worst) Libs crushing your soul with all over warm fuzziness, gut aching slobber, “Don’t cry mommy” chin drizzle. Getting to the end of this book felt like a bigger challenge than Fogle summiting Everest.
August 20, 2019
The book inspired me to dream or Everest; but it also convinced me I wouldn’t want Ben Fogle in my party on the way up the mountain.
Regrettably, the author comes across as quite self-centered, arrogant and disingenuous. Prolonged paragraphs philosophizing about life and it’s higher meaning can be best described as anthologies of cliches and don’t contribute much to the book. Neither does the name-dropping.
The adventure itself redeems the book some. The description of preparation and ascend is enthralling, as are the parts focused on physiological and mental challenges that Everest presents to a first-time climber. That being said, I would much prefer to read this story from the viewpoint of Kenton, Bens guide and companion on the trip.
Regrettably, the author comes across as quite self-centered, arrogant and disingenuous. Prolonged paragraphs philosophizing about life and it’s higher meaning can be best described as anthologies of cliches and don’t contribute much to the book. Neither does the name-dropping.
The adventure itself redeems the book some. The description of preparation and ascend is enthralling, as are the parts focused on physiological and mental challenges that Everest presents to a first-time climber. That being said, I would much prefer to read this story from the viewpoint of Kenton, Bens guide and companion on the trip.
April 4, 2019
This book was excellent.
It was bought for me as a gift and I wasn’t sure I’d like it, I really like Ben Fogle on New Lives in the Wild but I’m not normally keen on autobiographical books. I thoroughly enjoyed it though.
I like the mix of Ben talking about the expedition, Marina talking about it from her view and then the flashes into Ben’s life and views. It had me in tears at some points and on the edge of my seat at others and I found some really inspirational quotes in there as well. In fact, I even got out my post-it notes and pencil to underline my favourites!
A great read.
It was bought for me as a gift and I wasn’t sure I’d like it, I really like Ben Fogle on New Lives in the Wild but I’m not normally keen on autobiographical books. I thoroughly enjoyed it though.
I like the mix of Ben talking about the expedition, Marina talking about it from her view and then the flashes into Ben’s life and views. It had me in tears at some points and on the edge of my seat at others and I found some really inspirational quotes in there as well. In fact, I even got out my post-it notes and pencil to underline my favourites!
A great read.
July 31, 2025
Man alive this book could have been so much more, I seriously didn’t care if he made it to the summit. If this book was used for a drinking game, and you had to drink every time he said risk averse, death zone or did some rule of three, live, laugh, love, crap I would have been bladdered. Pre book I thought Ben Fogle was a posh bloke with a dog, post book I think he’s an entitled k^*b head. One star because no stars is not an option!
February 15, 2019
Absolutely brilliant - such joy and sadness in one book with lots of food for thought on how to live our lives!! Inspirational
April 30, 2024
It was really good! If you are looking for an action packed book all about the climb this book ISNT for you. Ben weaves his life experiences into his experience of Everest.
March 5, 2024
So good! Read it!!
January 14, 2019
Fascinating and thrilling adventure
"It was just before 8pm on the night that we attempted to climb to the top of the world."
I loved this book. Ben Fogle, an English broadcaster, writer and 'adventurer' had long dreamed of climbing Everest. After losing his third son late in the pregnancy, he decided to live life to the fullest and make his dream a reality. Even though he had very little mountaineering experience, he got together with Victoria Pendleton, former Olympic cycler, and partnered with Kenton Cool, an English mountaineer. Kenton put together a program for them to follow over two years to get ready for Everest.
I couldn't put this book down. Fogle is an excellent story teller and this was a very intense read. It was interesting to hear about their preparations for the journey. Once they arrived in Lukla, the book got really interesting. Fogle goes into great detail describing the time spent acclimatizing in and from everest base camp. I held my breath from the start of the first climb through the kumbu ice fall. At camp two, Victoria got very sick with acute mountain sickness and nearly died. As a result, she decided not to go on (a very sensible decision). Fogle goes into how sometimes it takes a lot more courage to "give up" than to keep going and do something stupid. I really enjoyed his words on this.
After having to say goodbye to Victoria, Fogle and his team went for the final push to the peak: traversing through the ice fall, to camp 2, through Lhotse face. They ran into unexpected bad weather at camp 4 and were forced to stay there for one or two days. This was very intense, as camp 4 is over 8000 meters and climbers usually try to limit time in the 'death zone' to as little as possible. While waiting there, some of his friends were unaccounted for, which made for some very fearful hours. The next day, they make their way to the top, which again made me hold my breath as there were a total of three oxygen bottle valves that exploded, making for a very stressful ascent.
This was a great read. Ben Fogle seems very down to earth and relatable. I was amazed at how little mountaineering experience he and especially Victoria had, which makes him more relatable to us "normal people" but also kind of made me question this expedition. The report from the death zone also made me wonder why he did it. This was his idea, he got three others to come with him simply for a childhood dream. He got lucky... And he knows it. He does ask himself why he made it and others didn't - and I know one part of it was sheer luck, and two sherpas risking their lifes giving up their oxygen bottles for Fogles group.
Overall this was an intense, highly interesting and very enjoyable read. I loved the psychological parts of it and the battle of mind vs. mountain, and I also enjoyed reading from Fogle's wife Marina on her thoughts. Although this is not the classic mountaineering adventure, I highly recommend this book.
"It was just before 8pm on the night that we attempted to climb to the top of the world."
I loved this book. Ben Fogle, an English broadcaster, writer and 'adventurer' had long dreamed of climbing Everest. After losing his third son late in the pregnancy, he decided to live life to the fullest and make his dream a reality. Even though he had very little mountaineering experience, he got together with Victoria Pendleton, former Olympic cycler, and partnered with Kenton Cool, an English mountaineer. Kenton put together a program for them to follow over two years to get ready for Everest.
I couldn't put this book down. Fogle is an excellent story teller and this was a very intense read. It was interesting to hear about their preparations for the journey. Once they arrived in Lukla, the book got really interesting. Fogle goes into great detail describing the time spent acclimatizing in and from everest base camp. I held my breath from the start of the first climb through the kumbu ice fall. At camp two, Victoria got very sick with acute mountain sickness and nearly died. As a result, she decided not to go on (a very sensible decision). Fogle goes into how sometimes it takes a lot more courage to "give up" than to keep going and do something stupid. I really enjoyed his words on this.
After having to say goodbye to Victoria, Fogle and his team went for the final push to the peak: traversing through the ice fall, to camp 2, through Lhotse face. They ran into unexpected bad weather at camp 4 and were forced to stay there for one or two days. This was very intense, as camp 4 is over 8000 meters and climbers usually try to limit time in the 'death zone' to as little as possible. While waiting there, some of his friends were unaccounted for, which made for some very fearful hours. The next day, they make their way to the top, which again made me hold my breath as there were a total of three oxygen bottle valves that exploded, making for a very stressful ascent.
This was a great read. Ben Fogle seems very down to earth and relatable. I was amazed at how little mountaineering experience he and especially Victoria had, which makes him more relatable to us "normal people" but also kind of made me question this expedition. The report from the death zone also made me wonder why he did it. This was his idea, he got three others to come with him simply for a childhood dream. He got lucky... And he knows it. He does ask himself why he made it and others didn't - and I know one part of it was sheer luck, and two sherpas risking their lifes giving up their oxygen bottles for Fogles group.
Overall this was an intense, highly interesting and very enjoyable read. I loved the psychological parts of it and the battle of mind vs. mountain, and I also enjoyed reading from Fogle's wife Marina on her thoughts. Although this is not the classic mountaineering adventure, I highly recommend this book.
October 14, 2023
I'm not that interested in Everest, so I mostly read it because I was curious about his wife's experience in dealing with the risk involved while staying at home with the kids.
October 18, 2020
An uplifting book. During this global pandemic, reading true adventure books has been a double-edged sword for me. Exciting to read but soured by the knowledge that for the foreseeable future, our travel dreams will be put on hold. To add insult to injury, some are rife with poorly disguised superiority, making it feel as though I have achieved nothing in life because of the tone of the writer. And yet, this is not that kind of book. In fact, it’s not like any of the non-fiction I’ve read before. Fogle writes with such openness and unfettered emotional honesty that I felt elated and inspired by his words right the way through. Within the first few pages, I was in floods of tears (and I am not someone who cries watching movies or reading books) when he recounted the loss of his son, Willem. Later, I was overjoyed at his success. His love for his family leaps off every page and his positivity is infectious. He is not one to waffle. The writing is straight to the point. Over the years, I’ve watched his documentaries on TV and have always admired his decorum and sunny disposition. He strikes me as an all-round good guy and not someone to succumb to excess and fame (very rare in that industry). Reading this book has only cemented my opinion. I loved it and wish I had read it sooner. I also applaud that he wasn't afraid to share his thoughts on potentially divided issues. Like the pressure of exams. I agree you can’t possibly measure someone’s talents with a letter (I did very well at school, got straight As and still hated the pressure and was wracked with guilt, just like Fogle). I could really relate to his honest musings on life in general, and these, combined with the heartfelt excerpts from his wife Marina, added tremendous depth. He did a great job with this book. I tore through it in a day.
May 27, 2019
Television presenter Ben Fogle's decision to tackle the world's highest peak came after one of his children was stillborn. This inspired him to live his life to his fullest, to take on things that may seem impossible. "Everest has represented everything I ever dreamed of achieving," he writes.
But how to balance this desire, one that represents mortal danger, with his love for his wife and two children? "I would risk my life for them. So why was I risking my life?" he asks. "In some ways risk comes with humanity," is one of his answers. "Achieving a dream is never without risk." He wanted to inspire his own children to reach up, not to give up.
Fogle's journey to the top is partly about ceding control to something else. While he explains he's not religious there is certainly a spiritual element to this adventure of his, to looking up, both physically and metaphysically. "The wilderness is my religion," he states. Fogle's attachment to nature and the wilderness, in particular, is a key driving force behind his summit of Everest.
The author's descriptions of his trek are vivid and filled with the tension that's inherent in climbing the magnificent but menacing Everest. He explains how he is changed by his experience, citing the slightly clichéd but appropriate saying, "Life is a journey, not a destination." That said, his life lessons, if they can be called that, are meaningful and filled with a sense of purpose.
It's not my usual kind of book but I was engrossed throughout.
But how to balance this desire, one that represents mortal danger, with his love for his wife and two children? "I would risk my life for them. So why was I risking my life?" he asks. "In some ways risk comes with humanity," is one of his answers. "Achieving a dream is never without risk." He wanted to inspire his own children to reach up, not to give up.
Fogle's journey to the top is partly about ceding control to something else. While he explains he's not religious there is certainly a spiritual element to this adventure of his, to looking up, both physically and metaphysically. "The wilderness is my religion," he states. Fogle's attachment to nature and the wilderness, in particular, is a key driving force behind his summit of Everest.
The author's descriptions of his trek are vivid and filled with the tension that's inherent in climbing the magnificent but menacing Everest. He explains how he is changed by his experience, citing the slightly clichéd but appropriate saying, "Life is a journey, not a destination." That said, his life lessons, if they can be called that, are meaningful and filled with a sense of purpose.
It's not my usual kind of book but I was engrossed throughout.
March 4, 2020
This was such an inspiring story with a really personal voice from both Ben and Marina. Inspiring, not because I’m ever considering climbing Everest, but because of the way it frames life and our opportunity to live while we can.
The story jumps between two narratives - the story of the physical climb of Everest, from the flight to Nepal, the trek to base camp, and so on, and the story of Ben’s life, his family, what has led him to climb the highest mountain in the world. It’s this second narrative of personal experience, often with his wife’s additional perspective, that really give this book depth. It really moved me, made me want to better myself, set goals, dream big.
The audiobook is also narrated by Ben and Marina, and I highly recommend it. Their storytelling is so compelling and I found this a book I really couldn’t wait to get through, wanting to find out what happens next.
There were some minor issues I had with the writing. It occasionally tripped back on itself, repeating several phrases and becoming clunky and hard to read at parts, but the earnestness of the storytelling came through. In a way it flows much more like a story does when told aloud naturally, as though to a friend - which really adds to the intimacy. There is a lot of honesty, a lot of personal detail, and in this way the method of relating the encounter is appropriate.
The story jumps between two narratives - the story of the physical climb of Everest, from the flight to Nepal, the trek to base camp, and so on, and the story of Ben’s life, his family, what has led him to climb the highest mountain in the world. It’s this second narrative of personal experience, often with his wife’s additional perspective, that really give this book depth. It really moved me, made me want to better myself, set goals, dream big.
The audiobook is also narrated by Ben and Marina, and I highly recommend it. Their storytelling is so compelling and I found this a book I really couldn’t wait to get through, wanting to find out what happens next.
There were some minor issues I had with the writing. It occasionally tripped back on itself, repeating several phrases and becoming clunky and hard to read at parts, but the earnestness of the storytelling came through. In a way it flows much more like a story does when told aloud naturally, as though to a friend - which really adds to the intimacy. There is a lot of honesty, a lot of personal detail, and in this way the method of relating the encounter is appropriate.
February 3, 2020
(Audible Review). I am a big fan of Ben Fogle, and even though an adventure book isn't my usual choice I still thought I'd enjoy his book and narration. I enjoyed the parts that were about the actual Everest prep or climb but my goodness, the bits of book in between were SO repetitive!
Ben and his wife cycle again and again through waffle about taking risks, how society has tried to harness the wilderness, how Ben wouldn't be who he is without travel and adventure, how exhilarating and dangerous everything is, how being a father is his main role...the list goes on...and on! I found myself rolling my eyes and sighing far too often. I honestly think a good 50% of the book needed far more of an edit than it got. On many occasions Ben would make some cliche philosophical statement and then spend the next several sentences saying the exact same thing just in a different order or with a slightly different choice of cliche words.
The book did develop a more intense respect within me for those that attempt Everest. However, I can't lie; this book itself felt like a very very very long up hill climb and I was glad when it ended.
Ben and his wife cycle again and again through waffle about taking risks, how society has tried to harness the wilderness, how Ben wouldn't be who he is without travel and adventure, how exhilarating and dangerous everything is, how being a father is his main role...the list goes on...and on! I found myself rolling my eyes and sighing far too often. I honestly think a good 50% of the book needed far more of an edit than it got. On many occasions Ben would make some cliche philosophical statement and then spend the next several sentences saying the exact same thing just in a different order or with a slightly different choice of cliche words.
The book did develop a more intense respect within me for those that attempt Everest. However, I can't lie; this book itself felt like a very very very long up hill climb and I was glad when it ended.
February 22, 2020
A fantastic read, throughly enjoyed this from start to finish. It made such a difference that Ben and Marina actually read the book and you really feel ‘in’ the story.
The journey itself is incredibly honest and at times harrowing. I was shocked to learn of some of the issues the Fogle family had been through and how that affected them all. It is great that the book gets the thoughts of both Ben as the person going away and carrying out such a feat of endurance as well as his wife’s version of being stuck at home with the children full of worry.
I loved Bens’ use of inspirational quotes and added to that he has inadvertently created some of his own of how to live a life despite its hurdles. Would thorough recommend this title.
The journey itself is incredibly honest and at times harrowing. I was shocked to learn of some of the issues the Fogle family had been through and how that affected them all. It is great that the book gets the thoughts of both Ben as the person going away and carrying out such a feat of endurance as well as his wife’s version of being stuck at home with the children full of worry.
I loved Bens’ use of inspirational quotes and added to that he has inadvertently created some of his own of how to live a life despite its hurdles. Would thorough recommend this title.
October 26, 2018
A good account of a fascinating journey to Everest. I really like Ben Fogle and he has an amazing life. His wife must be terrified when he travels! Thank you Net Galley for my copy.
May 30, 2021
Excellent!
December 27, 2025
As is beginning to become standard with Fogle books this one had me crying and laughing before I was even through the first chapter. What makes this different to many other Everest books is that Ben admits his own limitations and fears and doesn't put others down to make himself appear better. This one also includes sections written by his wife to provide the perspective of those waiting for news at home. Their obvious mutual love and respect for each other is wonderful and inspiring to read and makes this more than just another adventure book.
It took me longer to read than it should have because his positive mention of Adam Britton triggered me badly and I had to put the book aside and take a pause. Of course, Ben was fooled by Adam, so was I, and most other people in our community. Ben adores dogs and I can't believe that he would ever be OK with someone who filmed and posted himself abusing and raping hundreds of them, or someone who had a large stash of child pornography (both of which Adam has been convicted of). Adam Britton is evil personified but can appear quite charming as the most evil people often can. He is the opposite of Ben's message to look up and exactly what makes people scared to trust.
This is still an excellent book and well worth reading, but perhaps I should have skipped page 107.
It took me longer to read than it should have because his positive mention of Adam Britton triggered me badly and I had to put the book aside and take a pause. Of course, Ben was fooled by Adam, so was I, and most other people in our community. Ben adores dogs and I can't believe that he would ever be OK with someone who filmed and posted himself abusing and raping hundreds of them, or someone who had a large stash of child pornography (both of which Adam has been convicted of). Adam Britton is evil personified but can appear quite charming as the most evil people often can. He is the opposite of Ben's message to look up and exactly what makes people scared to trust.
This is still an excellent book and well worth reading, but perhaps I should have skipped page 107.
June 22, 2023
“Climb your own Everest. Don’t be alavés to conformity. Risk a little, cuz without it you can’t live, love, or experience. The biggest risk is not taking a risk in the first place. Without risks you can avoid defeat, but you can also never really achieve! Oh and don’t forget to look UP!” Loved his view!
December 24, 2023
This is the second time I’ve read this book. Having been to Everest Base Camp, it’s a little infuriating that Ben Fogle dismisses the 8 day adventure as a means to an end and ‘nothing much’. However, it’s understandable considering his venture to the summit of Everest. He complains a lot about many things and worries about everything (it gets tiring). But overall a good account of the adventure and well told. I enjoy the way he thinks about making the most of life and living it to the max.
June 1, 2022
Powerful. From the striving for the summit, to the lessons on life and the coping with loss.
July 13, 2021
A fantastic read and what an amazing achievement.
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