Not about mountains and peaks or the techniques of climbing, but about the social and psychological aspects of the sport. This book explains what kinds of people climbers are, how they plan trips, how they relate to their equipment, how they socialize in clubs and other organizations, and of course why they climb. No photos or drawings, just wonderful text. Illuminating for climbers and non-climbers alike. I stumbled upon this book in a bookstore and am glad I did. Reading this book is how I learned about Felice Benuzzi, who wrote a book called "No Picnic on Mt. Kenya."

See the Comments section for a listing of chapter titles. ( )