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Mountains to Cross: Finding Life's Purpose in Service
Publishers Weekly Bestseller
USA TODAY BESTSELLER
The rewards of turning a life of success into one of compassion in action are worth the risk.
Mountains to Cross is a narrative of the author’s pursuit of purpose through his transformative social contribution. George chronicles his path to helping thousands of families escape intergenerational poverty and societal inequality. More than a personal memoir, this book motivates those who want to address systemic poverty and inequality but are unsure where or how to start.
Through personal stories and lessons from his experiences, readers can develop their own understanding of what it means to lead a life of conviction and engagement. For social entrepreneurs, educators, philanthropists, policymakers, or anyone interested in grassroots change, it provides practical insights to help them achieve their goals of serving those in need.
The author offers his story not as a blueprint for service but as an invitation to consider a path of purpose through compassion. Written in a storytelling style, he shares his life experiences to provide insights into social work for those who wish to help the impoverished.
USA TODAY BESTSELLER
The rewards of turning a life of success into one of compassion in action are worth the risk.
Mountains to Cross is a narrative of the author’s pursuit of purpose through his transformative social contribution. George chronicles his path to helping thousands of families escape intergenerational poverty and societal inequality. More than a personal memoir, this book motivates those who want to address systemic poverty and inequality but are unsure where or how to start.
Through personal stories and lessons from his experiences, readers can develop their own understanding of what it means to lead a life of conviction and engagement. For social entrepreneurs, educators, philanthropists, policymakers, or anyone interested in grassroots change, it provides practical insights to help them achieve their goals of serving those in need.
The author offers his story not as a blueprint for service but as an invitation to consider a path of purpose through compassion. Written in a storytelling style, he shares his life experiences to provide insights into social work for those who wish to help the impoverished.
- GenresNonfiction
327 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 13, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
January 16, 2026
Mountains to Cross is a book of stories and conversations that blend quiet humour with profound moral insight. Through its pages, I learnt of the often-unseen cruelties of poverty and the way it systematically suppresses opportunity because of the lack of access. What makes the book especially powerful is that it offers pathways for action, reminding every person that meaningful change is possible within one’s own capacity. Above all, it offers hope: the conviction that quality education and a nurturing upbringing can break the cycle of generational poverty. I am deeply grateful to Dr. Abraham George, who has opened my eyes and motivated me to help the needy in any way I can.
January 17, 2026
Every so often, you read a book that doesn’t just sit on your shelf, but stays in your conscience. Mountains to Cross by Dr. Abraham George is exactly that. It is the story of a man who achieved the pinnacle of the "American Dream" - financial success, military prestige, and academic excellence - only to realize that his true "mountain" was waiting for him back in the rural heart of India.
By founding Shanti Bhavan, he proved that if you give a child from the most marginalized background the same tools, love, and education as a child of privilege, they can compete on a global stage.
On a personal level, this book was a wake-up call. It’s easy to look at the world’s problems and feel paralyzed by their scale. Dr. George’s journey shows us that while we may not all be able to build a boarding school, we all have "mountains" in our path that we can help others cross.
To sum it up, if you feel like the world’s problems are too big to solve, read this. It’s the antidote to cynicism.
By founding Shanti Bhavan, he proved that if you give a child from the most marginalized background the same tools, love, and education as a child of privilege, they can compete on a global stage.
On a personal level, this book was a wake-up call. It’s easy to look at the world’s problems and feel paralyzed by their scale. Dr. George’s journey shows us that while we may not all be able to build a boarding school, we all have "mountains" in our path that we can help others cross.
To sum it up, if you feel like the world’s problems are too big to solve, read this. It’s the antidote to cynicism.
July 26, 2026
Mountains to Cross is a deeply inspiring memoir that moves beyond the story of one man's success to explore a far more important question: what do we choose to do with the opportunities we have been given? Abraham M. George offers a compelling account of transforming personal achievement into meaningful service that uplifts entire communities.
What immediately stands out is the authenticity of the narrative. Rather than presenting philanthropy as an abstract ideal, George shares the practical realities, difficult decisions, and personal convictions that shaped his commitment to addressing systemic poverty and educational inequality. His journey feels honest, grounded, and genuinely motivating.
I particularly appreciated that the book avoids offering simplistic solutions. Instead, it encourages readers to discover their own path toward purposeful engagement. George's experiences provide valuable insight without suggesting that meaningful social impact follows a single formula, making the lessons broadly applicable regardless of one's background or profession.
The storytelling is another major strength. Personal experiences are woven naturally with reflections on leadership, education, entrepreneurship, and social responsibility, creating a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking. Readers come away with a deeper appreciation for the long-term work required to create lasting change.
Perhaps the book's greatest achievement is its optimism. While acknowledging the immense challenges posed by poverty and inequality, Mountains to Cross consistently demonstrates that committed individuals, thoughtful leadership, and compassionate action can create measurable and lasting impact across generations.
Ultimately, Mountains to Cross is both an inspiring memoir and a practical reflection on purpose-driven leadership. It will resonate with entrepreneurs, educators, philanthropists, nonprofit leaders, and anyone seeking to build a life defined not only by success, but by service.
What immediately stands out is the authenticity of the narrative. Rather than presenting philanthropy as an abstract ideal, George shares the practical realities, difficult decisions, and personal convictions that shaped his commitment to addressing systemic poverty and educational inequality. His journey feels honest, grounded, and genuinely motivating.
I particularly appreciated that the book avoids offering simplistic solutions. Instead, it encourages readers to discover their own path toward purposeful engagement. George's experiences provide valuable insight without suggesting that meaningful social impact follows a single formula, making the lessons broadly applicable regardless of one's background or profession.
The storytelling is another major strength. Personal experiences are woven naturally with reflections on leadership, education, entrepreneurship, and social responsibility, creating a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking. Readers come away with a deeper appreciation for the long-term work required to create lasting change.
Perhaps the book's greatest achievement is its optimism. While acknowledging the immense challenges posed by poverty and inequality, Mountains to Cross consistently demonstrates that committed individuals, thoughtful leadership, and compassionate action can create measurable and lasting impact across generations.
Ultimately, Mountains to Cross is both an inspiring memoir and a practical reflection on purpose-driven leadership. It will resonate with entrepreneurs, educators, philanthropists, nonprofit leaders, and anyone seeking to build a life defined not only by success, but by service.
January 16, 2026
This book is a must-read. Period.
Mountains to Cross is a powerful reminder that every obstacle in life can become a catalyst for meaningful change, if we choose to let it.
From all the funny stories of Dr. George’s childhood to the life-altering moment he experienced in the Himalayas, his journey is as engaging as it is inspiring.
Dr. George's recollection of his life as a successful businessman and his courageous decision to leave it all behind to create opportunities for children he had never even met, is a perfect combination of wisdom, kindness and plenty of laughter, making it both deeply moving and genuinely enjoyable to read.
His intelligence and thoughtful approach to solving problems, and the extraordinary impact of the school he built and the projects he has led, is nothing short of exemplary. Dr. George’s story is immensely inspiring, and there is something in this book for everyone, no matter their walk of life, to learn from.
Mountains to Cross is a powerful reminder that every obstacle in life can become a catalyst for meaningful change, if we choose to let it.
From all the funny stories of Dr. George’s childhood to the life-altering moment he experienced in the Himalayas, his journey is as engaging as it is inspiring.
Dr. George's recollection of his life as a successful businessman and his courageous decision to leave it all behind to create opportunities for children he had never even met, is a perfect combination of wisdom, kindness and plenty of laughter, making it both deeply moving and genuinely enjoyable to read.
His intelligence and thoughtful approach to solving problems, and the extraordinary impact of the school he built and the projects he has led, is nothing short of exemplary. Dr. George’s story is immensely inspiring, and there is something in this book for everyone, no matter their walk of life, to learn from.
March 2, 2026
“Mountains to Cross” by Dr. Abraham George, is an inspiring and uplifting life story that spans two continents. The story opens with a backdrop of life in the backwaters of his family home in Kerala, India. His abilities to lead, take risks and face challenges head on, began as an army captain in his early twenties in India. These qualities continue to play a part in his meteoric rise in the US, and then back to India, to fulfill a dream to provide an environment where children from the poorest and lowest caste can reach the upper echelons of education and society. The book is an alluring and excellent biography of Dr. George’s evolution over decades from being a man of privilege to being a man driven by purpose and service. The women who shaped his life and his loyalty to them is an ageless story of love and romance. The story is witty, captivating, excellent and easy to read. A must read.
January 29, 2026
Mountains to Cross weaves together stories and conversations filled with gentle humor and deep moral clarity. As I read, I became more aware of the quiet, persistent harms of poverty and how lack of access systematically limits opportunity. What makes this book stand out is that it doesn’t stop at awareness—it points toward action, reminding readers that change is possible at every scale. Most of all, it is a hopeful book, grounded in the belief that education and a loving upbringing can end generational poverty. I’m deeply thankful to Dr. Abraham George for broadening my perspective and inspiring me to do more; watching the Shanti Bhavan documentary on Netflix made the message even more powerful. After a difficult 2025, this book felt like a reset. I read it in one sitting. Highly recommend pairing it with the documentary...
January 30, 2026
From the Mountains of Se La to the rural villages of India, Dr. George’s contributions to the greater good will leave a forever mark. He has set the standard and foundation for what service through compassion is like. His work shows us the power of empathy and collective effort in changing the lives of others.
As a beneficiary of Shanti Bhavan, my life has changed forever in ways my family or I would have never dreamed of. I am forever grateful for the mission of Shanti Bhavan and the hurdles Dr. George has endured in giving the best for all the children he dedicates his life to. This book is not only his story, but a collective story of how overcoming generational poverty is possibly if you believe and give people an equal chance.
Recommend watching the documentary Daughters of Destiny on Netflix as you read this book.
As a beneficiary of Shanti Bhavan, my life has changed forever in ways my family or I would have never dreamed of. I am forever grateful for the mission of Shanti Bhavan and the hurdles Dr. George has endured in giving the best for all the children he dedicates his life to. This book is not only his story, but a collective story of how overcoming generational poverty is possibly if you believe and give people an equal chance.
Recommend watching the documentary Daughters of Destiny on Netflix as you read this book.
July 9, 2026
What makes this book so compelling is its authenticity. Rather than presenting himself as someone with all the answers, George openly shares the experiences, challenges, and lessons that shaped his commitment to helping others overcome poverty and inequality. His humility and genuine passion for creating lasting change make his story both relatable and profoundly motivating.
The storytelling is engaging and heartfelt, blending personal reflections with practical insights that encourage readers to take action in their own communities. The book explores important themes such as compassion, leadership, resilience, social responsibility, and the courage to pursue a purpose greater than personal success. Each chapter offers valuable lessons that inspire readers to believe they, too, can make a meaningful difference regardless of where they begin.
The storytelling is engaging and heartfelt, blending personal reflections with practical insights that encourage readers to take action in their own communities. The book explores important themes such as compassion, leadership, resilience, social responsibility, and the courage to pursue a purpose greater than personal success. Each chapter offers valuable lessons that inspire readers to believe they, too, can make a meaningful difference regardless of where they begin.
January 18, 2026
Mountains to Cross by Dr. Abraham M. George is a deeply inspiring book that left a lasting impact on me. Through his own life story, Dr. George shows what is possible when compassion, courage and determination come together. This book does an excellent job of balancing humor, emotion and practical insight, making it both engaging and meaningful without ever feeling heavy.
What stands out most is Dr. George himself. He comes across as one of the most compassionate human beings, dreaming of a better world and working relentlessly toward it.
Mountains to Cross is more than a memoir. It is a must-read for anyone with a dream, especially those who want their success to have meaning beyond themselves.
What stands out most is Dr. George himself. He comes across as one of the most compassionate human beings, dreaming of a better world and working relentlessly toward it.
Mountains to Cross is more than a memoir. It is a must-read for anyone with a dream, especially those who want their success to have meaning beyond themselves.
January 17, 2026
Mountains to Cross is a deeply compassionate and powerful autobiography. Dr. Abraham M. George’s life itself stands as proof that big dreams, when paired with discipline and empathy, can lead to extraordinary impact. His journey is especially motivating for anyone with philanthropic aspirations, showing how vision can turn into meaningful action.
What makes the book especially engaging is its warmth and humor. Amid serious challenges, Dr. George’s wit bring a lightness to the narrative. The result is an inspiring read that reminds us that perseverance, compassion, and purpose can truly move mountains.
What makes the book especially engaging is its warmth and humor. Amid serious challenges, Dr. George’s wit bring a lightness to the narrative. The result is an inspiring read that reminds us that perseverance, compassion, and purpose can truly move mountains.
January 21, 2026
An inspiring blueprint for changing the world, one life at a time
I watched the documentary Shanti Bhavan on Netflix. This book is in part an antidote for despair. I needed something to shift my perspective after a rough 2025. Started and finished in one evening. Watch the documentary after you read the book!
Abraham George’s "Mountains to Cross" is a stunning account of what happens when vision meets relentless determination. The book details his transition from the corporate world to tackling the 'impossible' problems of poverty and the caste system in India through the creation of the Shanti Bhavan school.
The title is apt—the obstacles he faces are immense—but his approach is pragmatic and deeply human. This isn't just a feel-good story; it’s a rigorous look at the complexities of humanitarian work and the long-term commitment required to break the cycle of poverty. It left me feeling hopeful and challenged to think bigger about what we can do for others. Highly recommended.
I watched the documentary Shanti Bhavan on Netflix. This book is in part an antidote for despair. I needed something to shift my perspective after a rough 2025. Started and finished in one evening. Watch the documentary after you read the book!
Abraham George’s "Mountains to Cross" is a stunning account of what happens when vision meets relentless determination. The book details his transition from the corporate world to tackling the 'impossible' problems of poverty and the caste system in India through the creation of the Shanti Bhavan school.
The title is apt—the obstacles he faces are immense—but his approach is pragmatic and deeply human. This isn't just a feel-good story; it’s a rigorous look at the complexities of humanitarian work and the long-term commitment required to break the cycle of poverty. It left me feeling hopeful and challenged to think bigger about what we can do for others. Highly recommended.
February 4, 2026
A Must-Read!
Mountains to Cross is an inspiring and deeply moving book that chronicles the remarkable journey of Dr. Abraham George and his lifelong commitment to service. Rather than portraying transformation as something that happens overnight, the book highlights the power of consistency, the lessons gained through lived experiences, and the unwavering determination to uplift others from poverty. It beautifully captures how a dream, nurtured with purpose and resilience, has grown to impact more than 500 children and their families. This story encourages readers to rethink their own definitions of success and purpose. Highly recommended!
Mountains to Cross is an inspiring and deeply moving book that chronicles the remarkable journey of Dr. Abraham George and his lifelong commitment to service. Rather than portraying transformation as something that happens overnight, the book highlights the power of consistency, the lessons gained through lived experiences, and the unwavering determination to uplift others from poverty. It beautifully captures how a dream, nurtured with purpose and resilience, has grown to impact more than 500 children and their families. This story encourages readers to rethink their own definitions of success and purpose. Highly recommended!
January 29, 2026
“Mountains to Cross” is not just a book; it is a journey of the heart. As I turned each page, I felt deeply moved by Dr. George’s extraordinary choice to walk away from comfort and walk toward compassion. His life shines as a living reminder that true greatness is found in serving others. Through his unwavering love, sacrifice, and vision, he has planted hope in countless young lives. I read this book with admiration, gratitude, and a renewed desire to live a life of purpose. Dr. George’s story does not end on the last page—it continues to inspire the heart long after.
January 30, 2026
Mountains to Cross is a must read.
I am currently reading the book, and still half way to go, I have learned so much from Dr. George's life stories.
If this book doesn't inspire you to give back to your community and society, by helping the underserved, I do not know what will. It takes you on a journey through hardship and success, humour and joy, and ultimately resilience—all in pursuit of making the world a better place.
With every memory Dr. George shares, my curiosity only grows.
I look forward to finishing this book and sharing it with my friends and colleagues!
I am currently reading the book, and still half way to go, I have learned so much from Dr. George's life stories.
If this book doesn't inspire you to give back to your community and society, by helping the underserved, I do not know what will. It takes you on a journey through hardship and success, humour and joy, and ultimately resilience—all in pursuit of making the world a better place.
With every memory Dr. George shares, my curiosity only grows.
I look forward to finishing this book and sharing it with my friends and colleagues!
January 21, 2026
This powerful and compassionate autobiography shows how big ideas, when paired with discipline and empathy, can create lasting change. Dr. Abraham M. George’s life is proof that meaningful impact is possible when vision turns into action. Mountains to Cross is especially inspiring for anyone interested in philanthropy or social change, offering both motivation and a realistic understanding of what that work requires.
January 27, 2026
A memoir about finding purpose through service, Abraham M. George does a great job of opening his own experiences and sharing with his reader.
This is an excellent guide that doesn’t just focus on service but also the why. This book does a great job of exploring that fact and bringing examples.
The book is honest, motivating, and easy to read.
This is an excellent guide that doesn’t just focus on service but also the why. This book does a great job of exploring that fact and bringing examples.
The book is honest, motivating, and easy to read.
January 28, 2026
If you have ever found yourself called to serve, this is a great read. It does a great job of breaking everything down and allowing you to change your mindset in a steady way. The author does a great job of presenting it as a guide in an easy to follow way while bringing real life examples and making it easy to relate to.
January 29, 2026
With vivid storytelling, moments of gentle humor, and deep compassion, Mountains to Cross is both inspiring and grounded. It stands as a testament to the transformative power of education, long-term commitment, and ethical leadership. Highly recommended for anyone seeking to align success with meaningful impact.
March 17, 2026
Dr. George’s memoir, Mountains to Cross, highlights his conviction that educating the disadvantaged is the most effective way to drive societal transformation. This book is an inspiration to those who want to contribute something to the society or look forward to bring valuable change in the society.
January 16, 2026
Mountains to Cross is an inspirational journey of Dr. George's life. His belief that education can transform society and help break the cycle of poverty is a powerful message in the book. His story serves as a guide to those who want to serve the people in need. It is a must read.
January 29, 2026
Inspired a lot...Must read
His " Life Model" is a game-changer for anyone feeling unfulfilled in their career. It makes the idea of "giving back" feel like a strategic transition rather than a vague dream.
February 5, 2026
Mountains to Cross is an uplifting memoir highlighting Dr. George’s firm conviction that education acts as a catalyst for social change. The narrative is driven by his belief that learning is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty, offering a powerful blueprint for those dedicated to service.
March 2, 2026
The book, while consistent with much of my understanding of issues of poverty, philanthropy, and ethics, also challenged ideas and assumptions I held. It is provocative, inspiring, and well-reasoned. Rooted in faith and service, this is a wonderful read.
January 20, 2026
Dr. George is so inspiring in all the work he does at Shanti Bhavan. I loved reading Mountains to Cross. It really got me thinking about the impact I want to have in this world.
January 30, 2026
Mountains to cross more than a memoir is a master class in social entrepreneurship,it is an essential read for anyone who is looking for the courage to be successful in their life...
February 16, 2026
Inspirational, uplifting and emotional. Very highly recommended.
February 17, 2026
It's a privilege to be part of the Shanti Bhavan community and Dr George is an inspirational figure.
March 6, 2026
Nice story. This was a Goodreads giveaway winner.
April 19, 2026
From the first page, this story grips you with its raw honesty and unwavering optimism. It isn’t just about surviving tough times—it's about transforming them into a purpose-driven life.
April 25, 2026
an inspiring memoir
What a powerful story about one man willing to give up monetary success in America to help change the lives of the most vulnerable in India. A good read
What a powerful story about one man willing to give up monetary success in America to help change the lives of the most vulnerable in India. A good read
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews