Jim Ring tells the story of the English love affair with the Alps, from its beginnings in the early Romantic movement, through the formation of the Alpine Club, to the interwar years and the development of downhill skiing.
I feel there is a fascinating book to be written on the relationship of the English with the Alps. This is not that book though. Abandoned on page 67 of 267. Deadly dull and badly organised. It reads like the author has thought of lots of things he wants to put in but couldn't be bothered to work out how to link them.
This is a gem of a book. It flows with the fluidity of a good novel but is packed with fascinating facts and history. I recommend it to all those who have more than a passing interest in the Alps. All mountain enthusiasts should love it.