Combining adventure story, travel log, and personal confession, this
absorbing account describes a wrenching experience that belies the
idealistic expectations of many Peace Corps volunteers. Following a
stint as a volunteer teacher in a Nepalese village, Phil Deutschle sets
off alone on an expedition to conquer Pharchamo, 20,580 feet high, which
has claimed several lives. This trek forms the framework of the book,
and into it Deutschle weaves the story of his experiences in sharply
etched, swiftly moving, often humorous anecdotes.