The Tower: A Chronicle of Climbing and Controversy on Cerro Torre (Patagonia® tapa dura/ también disponible como audiolibro por $14.95)

So much has been written about Cerro Torre that I was initially skeptical about how Kelly would fill the pages. But considering the early reviews and his background as both a very accomplished alpinist and writer I couldn't help but be intrigued enough to get a copy and find out. The Tower does a remarkable job weaving together the sense of exploration, survival and conquest from the early days in the massif with the new cadre of alpine athletes who see "fair means" as a code of honor equal to the prior generation's climbers' desire to plant their national flag on every summit. Perhaps the climbing is a narrative for the deeper dive into the science of memory? Or maybe the underlying pursuit of "the truth" is reflective of the struggles for the summit in the best style of each era? Regardless, Kelly layers personal interest with psychology and amazing climbing details that kept me turning pages. Even readers who don't think waterfalls look best frozen are likely to appreciate The Tower.

This book is captivating from the very start. Most of us older climbers know the story of Maestri's claims and abuses on Cerro Torre, Kelly Cordes has a great gift for telling it all again in a way that makes you turn page after page and leaves you feeling that you really understand the topic at the end. The book left me feeling sorry for Maestri as much as anything. What a waste of a life, defending a lie.
It also covers the major changes that have occurred in the Fitzroy massif since the birth of the town of Chalten and the arrival of the internet age.
Even if you have no intention of climbing Cerro Torre yourself you'll enjoy this book for it's insightful exploration in to the minds and egos of the characters who have graced it's walls.

I got this book for Christmas and have really enjoyed it. Kelly does a deft job weaving together history, adventure, and inspiration in this overview of the "world's most beautiful mountain." There is humor, accuracy, and some thoughtful opinion about fair means alpinism here. If you love mountains, good stories, and adventure pick up this book. Mine is destined to be dog-eared from reading and re-reading.