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The Push: A Climber's Journey of Endurance, Risk and Going Beyond Limits to Climb the Dawn Wall
THE STORY BEHIND THE HARDEST CLIMB IN HISTORY & ACCLAIMED DOCUMENTARY 'DAWN WALL'
'Heart-stopping, absorbing' Daily Mail
'The most daring free climber on the planet' The Times
__________
In 2015, climber Tommy Caldwell took on the hardest challenge of his life, spending 19 days freeclimbing Yosemite's vertical, 3000-foot Dawn Wall - regarded as the most difficult climb in history and a route nobody had ever done before.
This odds-defying feat was the culmination of seven years planning and a lifetime of determination.
Here, he recounts how he got there, the falls and setbacks - being held hostage, losing his index finger, the break-up of his marriage - the summits conquered and the fears overcome.
Fans of Free Solo and Dawn Wall, and climbers and non-climbers alike, will be gripped by this story of drive, focus and achieving the impossible.
__________
'The Push is not simply a book about rock climbing' Guardian
'Probably the greatest living athlete most people have never heard of' Telegraph
'Arguably the best all-round rock climber on the planet' National Geographic
'A real page-turner . . . captivating and deeply moving' Climb magazine
'Captivating and unfailingly honest' Jon Krakauer, author of Into the Wild and Into Thin Air
'Heart-stopping, absorbing' Daily Mail
'The most daring free climber on the planet' The Times
__________
In 2015, climber Tommy Caldwell took on the hardest challenge of his life, spending 19 days freeclimbing Yosemite's vertical, 3000-foot Dawn Wall - regarded as the most difficult climb in history and a route nobody had ever done before.
This odds-defying feat was the culmination of seven years planning and a lifetime of determination.
Here, he recounts how he got there, the falls and setbacks - being held hostage, losing his index finger, the break-up of his marriage - the summits conquered and the fears overcome.
Fans of Free Solo and Dawn Wall, and climbers and non-climbers alike, will be gripped by this story of drive, focus and achieving the impossible.
__________
'The Push is not simply a book about rock climbing' Guardian
'Probably the greatest living athlete most people have never heard of' Telegraph
'Arguably the best all-round rock climber on the planet' National Geographic
'A real page-turner . . . captivating and deeply moving' Climb magazine
'Captivating and unfailingly honest' Jon Krakauer, author of Into the Wild and Into Thin Air
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First published May 16, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 842 reviews
March 14, 2017
I've never climbed before, save for the rock wall at my school's gym. I might be interested in climbing. What I was not particularly interested in was the title of this book...motivational titles ("going beyond limits") do not motivate me. They turn me off, because I expect pandering, either to the author or to their audience.
But I flipped a couple pages through this book and I decided this was worth a read. So I took this to my local coffee shop and read through it in one go, despite the title. And I thoroughly enjoyed it. There wasn't too much technology to understand, it was explained well, and the author is a good writer. It's a pretty straight forward life story - what it says on the back is what it's about. In some words: Family, mountains, weather, Kyrgystani militants. And more.
It's worth a read.
But I flipped a couple pages through this book and I decided this was worth a read. So I took this to my local coffee shop and read through it in one go, despite the title. And I thoroughly enjoyed it. There wasn't too much technology to understand, it was explained well, and the author is a good writer. It's a pretty straight forward life story - what it says on the back is what it's about. In some words: Family, mountains, weather, Kyrgystani militants. And more.
It's worth a read.
October 6, 2019
This is no toss off... respect. Caldwell is open about having ghost writers / ghost editors helping him-- Kelly Cordes, some other guy who "brought out the emotional core we [Cordes and Caldwell] couldn't find"-- but clearly he put time and effort into this and it shows.
I like that he talks shit and is pretty frank about his feelings-- towards his dad, his climbing partner Kevin (aka MR CEO Joe Business), his first wife who cheats on him. I've read too many breezy celeb autobios where they skip over all the dirt (Rob Lowe).
Caldwell is a fascinating guy. He's such a weirdo. Spent two years as a kid digging a hole in his backyard. His superpower is his ability to endure endless tedious training and hard work. And I guess his vision
If like me you were fascinated by the Dawn Wall free climb then you'll find this book rewarding. He gets into the nitty gritty of each pitch and really puts you there. So crazy that Ondra then went and sent it in 8 days. But MUCH crazier that Tommy even believed that the climb was possible
Can't wait for that documentary to come out.
In the end a satisfying autobio by someone whose life merits telling. And who's old enough to deserve it! That's what bugged me about Alex Honnold's book. It was ok but it really seemed way too early to be writing a memoir. It came out before he solo'd El Cap!
I like that he talks shit and is pretty frank about his feelings-- towards his dad, his climbing partner Kevin (aka MR CEO Joe Business), his first wife who cheats on him. I've read too many breezy celeb autobios where they skip over all the dirt (Rob Lowe).
Caldwell is a fascinating guy. He's such a weirdo. Spent two years as a kid digging a hole in his backyard. His superpower is his ability to endure endless tedious training and hard work. And I guess his vision
If like me you were fascinated by the Dawn Wall free climb then you'll find this book rewarding. He gets into the nitty gritty of each pitch and really puts you there. So crazy that Ondra then went and sent it in 8 days. But MUCH crazier that Tommy even believed that the climb was possible
Can't wait for that documentary to come out.
In the end a satisfying autobio by someone whose life merits telling. And who's old enough to deserve it! That's what bugged me about Alex Honnold's book. It was ok but it really seemed way too early to be writing a memoir. It came out before he solo'd El Cap!
July 19, 2019
"Pitch" perfect memoir about persistence/perseverance and overcoming adversity in the form of things you cannot control (premature birth, developmental delays, special ed, big ears etc, being taken hostage in a war-torn country, spouse's infidelity, cut-off finger, assorted random injuries), and goals that must be overcome to fulfill one's dream. Flowing anonymous American prose, insightful, vivid, inspiring, but also defined so many terms and explained so many things that Alone on the Wall just sort of aired and moved through. Read this thanks to Tommy's excerpts that appeared in Honnold's book, which has a much deeper POV, comparatively, is almost like a sort of poetry at times lingo-wise (listen to Alex and Tommy take about 25 minutes to describe in-depth a sub-two hour climb of the Nose in El Cap -- they really dive deep into the language of climbing and although almost none of it makes sense to a bystander like me their elite insider expertise achieves a really pleasurable hypnotic evocation of their feat: https://soundcloud.com/american-alpin...). Also loved https://www.netflix.com/title/81004270 which is pretty much the audiovisual complement to this textual experience -- it really did feel like an immersive experience in the world of an elite big-wall rock climber, not just the climbs and cliffs etc but the psychological, emotional, interpersonal nuances of dedicating one's life to something with huge existential rewards, limited financial rewards, and massive mortal risk. Makes it seem not so daunting to do whatever it is we do every day on the comparatively horizontal surface of the earth.
August 18, 2017
This is nonfiction and it was as gripping as a fictional thriller. I really enjoyed this one. I enjoy the genre of autobiographies and biographies. This has to be one of the most gripping ones I've read. I thought the author did a great job of describing family, friends, neediness, dreams, and perfection. He managed to pull it all together and it was well presented. So 5 stars.
October 9, 2019
I think my low review for this book is just a matter of personal taste. It’s a fine book, but for me personally, the tone was unbearable. One of the things I like best about rock climbing culture is the irreverent, outrageous, big characters. The risky grand adventure of a life spent climbing is so well balanced by absurd, almost flippant situations like what Alex Honnold said when he finished free soloing El Cap. When asked what was next for him, he responded that he’d probably hang board, and probably have lunch. I love that stuff. In contrast, this book is earnest AF. It’s all, “I entered this life in strife and struggle, and I’ll likely exit in strife and struggle.” JEEZ. Just not my style. Also, I found the character of Beth totally insufferable, and she features really heavily in the book.
In short, if you're interested in Tommy Caldwell, and you like his personality, I think you'll really like this book. It's well written and organized well. If you're looking for a fun adventure story about climbing, maybe not the book for you. Dawn Wall was a great film though, I'd recommend that. All the adventure, minimal angst.
In short, if you're interested in Tommy Caldwell, and you like his personality, I think you'll really like this book. It's well written and organized well. If you're looking for a fun adventure story about climbing, maybe not the book for you. Dawn Wall was a great film though, I'd recommend that. All the adventure, minimal angst.
May 18, 2018
Although I have spent the largest part of my adult life being a climber, I usually find climbing literature rather boring. So, “the Push” pleasantly surprised me. More so since the author had no previous writing credentials.
“The Push” is full of interesting accounts of historic ascents which are both relevant and exciting to read as a climber. But where the book surpassed itself from being a report worthy only of a climbing journal, is when the author turns his attention on the deeper psyche of climbers. Caldwell exposes parts of his personality and inner thoughts that commonly haunt climbers yet few of us dare speaking out loud or even admitting. Obsession, self-loathing, vitriolic selfishness, deep insecurities, failed relationships and fake friendships. All of it can be found in “the Push” alongside with beautiful stories of comradery, humbleness and natural romanticism that would make a 18th century German poet to blush.
In the end, climbing is as much about the inner struggles as it is about those bloody crimps and scary headwalls and there are very few climbing books who dare confronting those inner demons head on as “the Push” does.
It is of little consequence that at the end the author chooses to adopt a (rather naïve) Hollywoodian happy ending to reassure us that everything is fine and flowery. The push has summoned the demons and it feels like a work that exceeds its creator. I had this feeling throughout the book. That Caldwell exposed more about himself, climbing and our community that he might have realized at the moment of writing.
And this is what makes this book so interesting
“The Push” is full of interesting accounts of historic ascents which are both relevant and exciting to read as a climber. But where the book surpassed itself from being a report worthy only of a climbing journal, is when the author turns his attention on the deeper psyche of climbers. Caldwell exposes parts of his personality and inner thoughts that commonly haunt climbers yet few of us dare speaking out loud or even admitting. Obsession, self-loathing, vitriolic selfishness, deep insecurities, failed relationships and fake friendships. All of it can be found in “the Push” alongside with beautiful stories of comradery, humbleness and natural romanticism that would make a 18th century German poet to blush.
In the end, climbing is as much about the inner struggles as it is about those bloody crimps and scary headwalls and there are very few climbing books who dare confronting those inner demons head on as “the Push” does.
It is of little consequence that at the end the author chooses to adopt a (rather naïve) Hollywoodian happy ending to reassure us that everything is fine and flowery. The push has summoned the demons and it feels like a work that exceeds its creator. I had this feeling throughout the book. That Caldwell exposed more about himself, climbing and our community that he might have realized at the moment of writing.
And this is what makes this book so interesting
July 6, 2017
I'm one of those creepy people who stalk Beth and Tommy on Instagram and wonder what their lives are like. So thanks, Tommy, for giving me a 200 page rundown. A really well-written work, with tons of gritty climbing bits, inspiring philosophical bits, and a really beautiful family dynamic between father and son. Tommy seems like a genuinely good guy who has done a lot of inspiring things...one of those being writing this solid piece of work.
January 17, 2018
Inspirational, funny, and thought-provoking. Makes me want to go out and climb.
November 3, 2017
The story of Tommy Caldwell's life is so much bigger and interesting than I even imagined. As a recreational climber, off and on for 20-some years, I've know about Caldwell seemingly forever. Hell, I even was a judge at a climbing comp he, and his later wife (now ex) Beth Rodden, were at back in the 90's. I knew a few of the highlights of his life, especially kidnapping in Kyrgyzstan from the years I read Outside, Rock & Ice, and Climbing magazines. And, of course, it was impossible not to hear about his push up the Dawn Wall a couple of years back. But all the amazing adventures in between; his outlook on life; the relationship with his father (who I clearly remember from those climbing competition days); his relationship with Beth Rodden...all of it, took me on such an amazing arm-chair adventure. He is so much more accomplished and well-rounded than I ever imagined. I drove everyone around me nuts telling them about this book as I read. Pleading for all to read it.
I will never climb at a level that even qualifies me to carry this man's chalk bag but this book came to me at the right time as I have made some huge gains in my own personal climbing that it just got me psyched to push harder. I am already desperately trying to figure out how to apply this recent gains in climbing and the mental toughness attitude in this book to improve my ability in my other love: mountain biking. This will easily rank as one of my top books of 2018.
I will never climb at a level that even qualifies me to carry this man's chalk bag but this book came to me at the right time as I have made some huge gains in my own personal climbing that it just got me psyched to push harder. I am already desperately trying to figure out how to apply this recent gains in climbing and the mental toughness attitude in this book to improve my ability in my other love: mountain biking. This will easily rank as one of my top books of 2018.
June 6, 2017
I'm not one to read memoirs (Actually one of those people who barely read any fiction or biography, more of a Richard Dawkins reader, so this book really is something) but I decided to read this as i have been struggling with my climbing the past couple of weeks and a friend recommended this to me (as well as Tommy Caldwell's instagram account) I first expected this book to be just about Caldwell as this super talented climber yada yada yada, but this turned out to be one of the most emotionally engaging personal stories i have ever read. I feared that the writing style might be dissatisfying but i was wrong! Hats off to Tommy Caldwell! The only climber writer who can make the story of tough journey of sending, regardless of his bloody palms, cur off fingers and personal emotional ups and downs into somewhat a charming tale filled with remarkable perseverance. I finished the book in less than two days, excited, cried, inspired, cried again, and now, i am more determined to train!
Climbers or non-climbers, this book is for everyone!
Climbers or non-climbers, this book is for everyone!
May 31, 2017
I followed Tommy and Kevin as they pursued the Dawn Wall Project. I got to hear Tommy read at one of the early author stopovers (#copperfieldsevents) for this book. That reading set me up well for what to expect, and maybe what not to expect. And let me say, too, right up front, that I'm glad he wrote the book and that I don't have to wait for the movie (I was among those who threw a question up the wall at Kevin on Twitter and mine was to the effect of when could I expect the book).
Now, this is not a book about the Dawn Wall, though it figures considerably. I will still read a more detailed, blood-on-the-Dawn-Wall thrilla should one ever emerge, but this will probably prove the better read, the better ride.
I had thoughts as I read of, wait, just TMI, maybe I didn't need to know that about Tommy. But the point is, that Tommy needed us to know how the Dawn Wall figures in a life made up of risk assessment and adventuring.
I had but recently read Brian Van Reet's self assessment in which he writes that "'storyteller' has to be one of the soldier’s many unofficial occupations," when I took up Caldwell's book with his many references to himself as a warrior. I'm not usually fond of how often we use such terms, whether as simile or metaphor, when describing that which is not about blood shed on a battlefield, and particularly when the subject under consideration is Nature which has suffered enough under Tennyson's "red in tooth and claw." I was pleased when late in the book Tommy stated his objection, and that of most climbers, to the term conquered in relation to peaks and spires and walls that have been sent. Still, Van Reet's comment rang true as I followed Caldwell's stories. Long hours on portaledges or waiting out weather on the ground have obviously given Caldwell time to think about the places he's been and what it meant to be there.
TMI, but I'll get over it. It was worth the read.
Now, this is not a book about the Dawn Wall, though it figures considerably. I will still read a more detailed, blood-on-the-Dawn-Wall thrilla should one ever emerge, but this will probably prove the better read, the better ride.
I had thoughts as I read of, wait, just TMI, maybe I didn't need to know that about Tommy. But the point is, that Tommy needed us to know how the Dawn Wall figures in a life made up of risk assessment and adventuring.
I had but recently read Brian Van Reet's self assessment in which he writes that "'storyteller' has to be one of the soldier’s many unofficial occupations," when I took up Caldwell's book with his many references to himself as a warrior. I'm not usually fond of how often we use such terms, whether as simile or metaphor, when describing that which is not about blood shed on a battlefield, and particularly when the subject under consideration is Nature which has suffered enough under Tennyson's "red in tooth and claw." I was pleased when late in the book Tommy stated his objection, and that of most climbers, to the term conquered in relation to peaks and spires and walls that have been sent. Still, Van Reet's comment rang true as I followed Caldwell's stories. Long hours on portaledges or waiting out weather on the ground have obviously given Caldwell time to think about the places he's been and what it meant to be there.
TMI, but I'll get over it. It was worth the read.
July 27, 2025
Excellent story! I wish I was reading this under different circumstances though because it made me a lil sad I couldn’t be out there climbing
January 31, 2020
Time to sign myself up for the climbing gym!
I'm not always sold on the idea that somebody under 40 can write a memoir that is important, well-written, enthralling and wise. This one is definitely all of that.
Thanks to my brother Nick for getting me this book for Christmas. All of us wish to be able to make perfect choices when picking books as gifts for others and he has it down!
I'm not always sold on the idea that somebody under 40 can write a memoir that is important, well-written, enthralling and wise. This one is definitely all of that.
Thanks to my brother Nick for getting me this book for Christmas. All of us wish to be able to make perfect choices when picking books as gifts for others and he has it down!
March 1, 2022
I enjoyed this book, and highly recommend it to those who love climbing or adventure nonfiction. Tommy Caldwell is a surprisingly good writer for being a professional rock climber with self-proclaimed lack of interest in school. The last few chapters were especially engaging, as they focus on the ascent of the Dawn Wall. I also enjoyed the background of his life through the first-person perspective, as he has lived such an interesting life such as growing up in Estes Park, experiences in Kyrgyzstan, and traveling the world for climbing. That being said, the underlying tone of the book troubled me. Perhaps it is merely the nature of autobiography as a medium (which admittedly I tend to avoid), but Tommy seemed to do no wrong. He constantly condescended Kevin for not devoting every waking second for the five year Dawn Wall project. I also found the theme of the book to be quite repetitive and cliché.
This being said, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was entertaining, exciting and exhilarating. Minus one star since the book felt a bit clunky at times, which is to be expected as he is not a professional author. Minus one star because he used "baby" in every dialog with his wife which I found to be unbearably irritable. I would recommend this book for anyone, even those not interested in climbing. That being said, it got me amped for lead climbing and hopefully some big wall expeditions in the near future.
This being said, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was entertaining, exciting and exhilarating. Minus one star since the book felt a bit clunky at times, which is to be expected as he is not a professional author. Minus one star because he used "baby" in every dialog with his wife which I found to be unbearably irritable. I would recommend this book for anyone, even those not interested in climbing. That being said, it got me amped for lead climbing and hopefully some big wall expeditions in the near future.
August 23, 2017
Beautifully written. So beautifully written, in fact, that when I read passages like this - "I lift my shirt and let the little body rest on my bare stomach. As his heart beats next to mine, my own doubles in size." - I can't help thinking I'm hearing, inside my head, the voice of Caldwell's co-author (Kelly Cordes) instead of his own. But that's a minor quibble. As is this: the book's probably a few dozen pages longer than it needs to be.
But I admire Caldwell's willingness to open up about his relationships, his near-death experiences in Kyrgyzstan, and all the self-doubt and insecurities that even brilliantly talented athletes must face. And even if the book's a smidge longer than necessary, it's all justified by the big emotional payoffs at the end (which, I should admit, was probably due to me having a daughter about the same age as Caldwell's son). Anyway, I can happily recommend this to all my climbing friends.
But I admire Caldwell's willingness to open up about his relationships, his near-death experiences in Kyrgyzstan, and all the self-doubt and insecurities that even brilliantly talented athletes must face. And even if the book's a smidge longer than necessary, it's all justified by the big emotional payoffs at the end (which, I should admit, was probably due to me having a daughter about the same age as Caldwell's son). Anyway, I can happily recommend this to all my climbing friends.
November 12, 2018
Even since I saw the movie Free Solo and they had a short interview of Tommy Caldwell in the movie I figured this would be a fun book to read. Really I wanted to read what goes on in the psyche of these rock climbers who seemingly risk their lives in pursuit of their sport. And what makes them different from others in that they seem to have no fear factor in terms of being thousands of feet up in the air just dangling from a rope. This book, like most I’ve read of Alpine climbers is a journey from their childhood, what made them want to take up their sport and who influenced them, up to their adult lives and their crowning achievements. Tommy’s was climbing the Dawn Wall and he devoted a few chapters specifically to the climb, and previous chapters on the preparation and years, physically and mentally, that it took to finally achieve that specific climb. Now I have to see the movie.
In short, I really enjoyed the book.
In short, I really enjoyed the book.
May 28, 2022
I've read a few climbing memoirs and went into this one with mediocre expectations ... so often such memoirs spend far too much time on technical details that non-climbers (most of us) just can't parse out, while skipping the emotional core that makes these endeavors so compelling. "The Push" is not that. Caldwell really brings readers into the story, feeling the rock tear at our own fingers, imagining the perplexing puzzle of the wall, gulping at the thoughts of such stunning exposure. I knew only vaguely about his Dawn Wall climb before picking up this book, and it was interesting to learn this was the culmination of 8 years of obsession. The backstory is fascinating as well. I enjoyed this book much more than I expected and would recommend it to any non-climber interested in learning a bit more about the sport.
February 9, 2019
This was one of the best books I’ve read in a while. Yes it is a climbing book, but also follows Caldwell’s life through all his up and downs. Pure dedication on his part. If it not a climber, I would recommend this book.
June 29, 2020
Amazing guy with amazing perseverance
March 12, 2020
I have experimented with climbing in the past and it's a sport, if not an activity for me, that I really enjoyed. I like the puzzle aspect to it, and the endurance and strength of mind one must have throughout an ascent, even if just in bouldering. At the time I tried it out, in 2016, I was introduced to the 'character' of Alex Honnold and I really enjoyed seeing not just videos of him climbing, but eventually I read about his perspective on his free climbing endeavours, Alone on the Wall. I really jived with it.
With this book, just my second attempt in reading about the climbing world and a professional climber, I did not click with so well.
There were definitely very engaging aspects of it: Caldwell's accounts of his childhood, how he got into climbing and how he made it his career; even his traumatic experience when he was held hostage abroad with a climbing team. However, I think the tone of the book went downhill from there. While this is auto-biographical in tone, and a general account of others of life's tribulations may appear, I felt about half of this book was about relationship stories, namely Caldwell's relationship to his first wife and then to his second wife. This arguably impact his climbing life, sure, but did I need to know that much about it? About their dynamic and issues? Not really. If that was what I was looking for, then fine, but I was expecting more in-depth stories of climbing, more heart-wrenching moments on the wall or training stories. This kind of disappointed me and even stressed me out a bit since I'm in a touch relationship situation in real life.
Maybe it's my bad for not reading summaries or reviews beforehand, but just wanted to five everyone a warning about this.
All in all, nonetheless, it was still enjoyable.
With this book, just my second attempt in reading about the climbing world and a professional climber, I did not click with so well.
There were definitely very engaging aspects of it: Caldwell's accounts of his childhood, how he got into climbing and how he made it his career; even his traumatic experience when he was held hostage abroad with a climbing team. However, I think the tone of the book went downhill from there. While this is auto-biographical in tone, and a general account of others of life's tribulations may appear, I felt about half of this book was about relationship stories, namely Caldwell's relationship to his first wife and then to his second wife. This arguably impact his climbing life, sure, but did I need to know that much about it? About their dynamic and issues? Not really. If that was what I was looking for, then fine, but I was expecting more in-depth stories of climbing, more heart-wrenching moments on the wall or training stories. This kind of disappointed me and even stressed me out a bit since I'm in a touch relationship situation in real life.
Maybe it's my bad for not reading summaries or reviews beforehand, but just wanted to five everyone a warning about this.
All in all, nonetheless, it was still enjoyable.
May 3, 2021
I know absolutely nothing about rock climbing so this was my first introduction to it. Tommy is a free climber, meaning he only uses climbing equipment for protection. He advances in the climb by hand and foot holds. Looking at the cover of the book sort of gives you an idea, or better yet watch a short video of Tommy climbing El Capitan in Yosemite and it makes you want to gasp. It's absolutely incredible. The book culminates with Tommy climbing the Dawn Wall of El Cap, his long held dream. Along the way there are personal triumphs and sufferings.
I enjoyed Tommy's honesty, whether he was talking about his sport or his personal life. He comes off as a really likable guy, with kind assessments of fellow climbers and even his very unlikable first wife, Beth. I was so glad when we were done with her part of the story. She was a pill.
Tommy's dad was also an interesting part of the story, as were climbing partners Alex and Kevin. Reading The Push is one of those experiences where you can enjoy the adventure without any risk!
Jonathan MClain was the narrator and I thought he was excellent.
I enjoyed Tommy's honesty, whether he was talking about his sport or his personal life. He comes off as a really likable guy, with kind assessments of fellow climbers and even his very unlikable first wife, Beth. I was so glad when we were done with her part of the story. She was a pill.
Tommy's dad was also an interesting part of the story, as were climbing partners Alex and Kevin. Reading The Push is one of those experiences where you can enjoy the adventure without any risk!
Jonathan MClain was the narrator and I thought he was excellent.
August 9, 2021
Since reading 'Into thin air' and 'Touching the Void' I have struggled to find other first-hand accounts that capture not only the thrill of climbing, but the mentality and emotion involved in pushing yourself upwards.
'The Push' (although it could maybe do with a better name) is exactly what I was after. I was absolutely captivated, and can't stop telling people about this book.
It follows the life of Tommy Caldwell, starting in his childhood, through the ups and downs of his life (and boy are there some ups and downs), to him finally climbing the Dawn Wall.
Even if you've seen the documentary about his story (maybe especially if you have seen the documentary) this book is SO worth a read.
'The Push' (although it could maybe do with a better name) is exactly what I was after. I was absolutely captivated, and can't stop telling people about this book.
It follows the life of Tommy Caldwell, starting in his childhood, through the ups and downs of his life (and boy are there some ups and downs), to him finally climbing the Dawn Wall.
Even if you've seen the documentary about his story (maybe especially if you have seen the documentary) this book is SO worth a read.
December 23, 2021
Unbelievable, just incredible. There were some moments in this book, witnessing Tommy and his friends teeter between life and death, that made my heart race and palms start to sweat. But while the physical feats and harebrained adventures are a thrill to read about, what really gave this book so much impact is the emotional depth and honest reflection with which it is written. The inner journey is as remarkable as the outer one. His relationships with the significant figures in his life (his father, mother, his ex-wife Beth, his climbing partner Kevin, and his current wife Becca) - and of course his relationship with climbing- are all laid bare. Unlike Alex Hannold's book, Tommy doesn't seek to elevate himself into a hero, but remains self-critical and vulnerable throughout. Ultimately this is a book about the heights you can reach when you consistently defy your comfort zones, and I feel inspired to not back down so easily in the face of physical and emotional hardship - in short, to be less of a wimp.
November 8, 2024
This was great. Way better than most other athlete/climber bios I’ve read, especially men. Ever since I started watching docs and stuff featuring Tommy, I felt I’ve resonated with him more than other climbers, and this confirms it. He’s super open and honest in this account, it’s not boring at all, and he strikes that nice balance between not trying to deny the fact he’s a badass climber with incredible achievements while also not being a super full of himself and obnoxious. Definitely recommend this one.
August 5, 2022
What a fantastic book! It’s basically the same material as the movie, The Dawn Wall, but the ability for the book to show Tommy’s thoughts pushes this book to another level. It also shows the amount of dedication required to pull off such a grand feat. This book totally energized me to keep training harder in my life, and for that I am grateful.
February 9, 2024
After reading this book, I realized that if Tommy Caldwell can train-physically and mentally-for years to rock climb the most challenging wall in the world, I can probably get myself off the couch and do the dishes. Respect.
February 5, 2022
I loved the documentary The Dawn Wall. This is the book version. Tommy is incredible and this book adds details that provide context for documentary. I’d recommend you either watch the doc or read the book. So many lessons about endurance, preparation, and seeking excellence.
September 6, 2022
Banger of a life story. Tommy Caldwell survives through more situations than the average person does in a lifetime. Very relatable
December 28, 2023
Biografia immancabile nello scaffale di un climber.
Il percorso di Caldwell è estremamente interessante, dal rapporto con il padre (uguale e opposto ad Agassi), al rapimento, all'incidente. Il libro poi chiaramente si sofferma sulla Dawn Wall e sui 7 anni di tentativi, portandoti con lui in cima. Da malato, avrei voluto ancora più una spiegazione tecnica dei tiri, ma forse così è più godibile per tutti.
Consigliatissimo.
Il percorso di Caldwell è estremamente interessante, dal rapporto con il padre (uguale e opposto ad Agassi), al rapimento, all'incidente. Il libro poi chiaramente si sofferma sulla Dawn Wall e sui 7 anni di tentativi, portandoti con lui in cima. Da malato, avrei voluto ancora più una spiegazione tecnica dei tiri, ma forse così è più godibile per tutti.
Consigliatissimo.
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