probably more deserving of 4.5 stars, but oh well. not so much because the writing is top-notch (it's plenty good, but not the best ever), but rather because i find the man amazing. being an avid reader/watcher of all things mountain climbing, i'd for sure heard the name ed viesturs before, but never really knew much about him. it's amazing the kinds of things a man will to do achieve his dream. surely there have been better climbers, but rarely does a combination of such skill, character, and motivation come together like this. if you enjoy climbing, reading about climbing, or being inspired, this one's definitely worth a read.