At The Mercy Of The Mountains: True Stories Of Survival And Tragedy In New York's Adirondacks Download Free (EPUB, PDF)
In this compelling book, award-winning adventure writer and former Lower Adirondack Search and Rescue team member Peter Bronski chronicles true stories of survival and tragedy, from famous historical cases during the early 20th century, to modern tales of harrowing struggle in the mountains and wilderness. Extensively researched, these gripping tales pull together historical accounts, first-hand interviews, previously untold stories and expert analysis to retrace each misadventure
Perfect Paperback: 336 pages
Publisher: Lyons Press; 1st edition (February 26, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1599213044
ISBN-13: 978-1599213040
Product Dimensions: 5.5 x 0.9 x 8.2 inches
Shipping Weight: 12.2 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
Average Customer Review: 4.9 out of 5 stars See all reviews (39 customer reviews)
Best Sellers Rank: #95,315 in Books (See Top 100 in Books) #8 in Books > Science & Math > Nature & Ecology > Mountains #53 in Books > Sports & Outdoors > Survival Skills #104 in Books > Sports & Outdoors > Mountaineering > Mountain Climbing
Peter Bronski's collection of survival stories is riveting. Beginning with an introduction discussing the unique history and characteristics that are the Adirondacks, Bronski sets the tone for some amazing and harrowing true stories.The infamous 1995 `blowdown' (derecho) is witnessed by several campers, where tornado-like microburst combined with thousands of lightning strikes terrifies the region. The storm leaves campers stranded in a mix of tangled trees piled like matchsticks. Four young men on a winter hiking trip suddenly experience a fast regional thaw and watch as several feet of snow turn to slush, suddenly flooding their lean-to and leaving them to hike over treacherous lakes and rivers that can't hold their weight. An experienced pilot and his wife crash their small plane into a mountainside, barely surviving, only to find themselves miles from nowhere.These are just some of the stories that the author brings to life, some old and some recent. The most striking aspect this collection is the emphasis on search and rescue (SAR) in conjunction with the survivors ordeals. There are numerous missing persons mentioned over the years, some found and some lost forever. Instead of dwelling on morbid or gory descriptions, Bronksi focuses on the survivors and those that risk their lives to save others. Sometimes remnants of a lost hiker are found years later. Sometimes the family never gives up the search. This book is an instant classic and a must read for any outdoor enthusiast, especially if they travel in the Adirondacks.
Definitely one of the best books I've read on the Adirondacks.Having just completed climbing all the 46 Adirondack High Peaks in the past year I found this book thoroughly enjoyable. It is well researched, well written and the stories are retold in such a way that keep you on the edge of your seat.I really had a difficult time putting this book down as I read about many mishaps in areas in the "Daks" that I had personally "discovered" having passed through just recently- these areas will be well-know to those who frequent this still somewhat rugged wilderness.Not only was the book entertaining but educational. One can always learn from other's mistakes thus minimizing a repeat of such tragedies or risky situations. It certainly pushes home the idea that safety should never be compromised when venturing out into any mountains or wilderness.This book will be a big hit amoung those not familar with the region as well as those who love the Adirondacks. Anyone who enjoys mountaineering and adventure tales involving tragedy or survival will enjoy & benefit.I can see this book selling like "hotcakes" once word gets around about its availability.
You don't have to have knowledge of the Adirondacks to love this book. I have never been there and don't know anything about them, but still found this book a wonderful read. What I found most incredible is the amount of research and intervieweing that went into it. Each story held so much useful and clear detail that I felt I got a true sense of the atmosphere and events as they unfolded. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys adventure reads, especially true ones.
Bought this book as a gift for my husbands birthday. Arrived quickly and in great shape. We frequent the Adirondack park multiple times a year and my husband and kids are avid backpackers. He loved this book. He's since lent it to a couple of fellow backpacking friends.
What a wonderful read. I just recently discovered hiking/camping in the Adirondacks and its become my new love.... So during the week when I'm in the city working and there is no chance of being in the wilderness (And I'm itching for the weekends)... This book helps to quell that itch and gives me something to read so I feel like I'm there. This book brings it all to life, the perfect mix of storytelling, facts/information (perfect for understanding where everything is taking place) and suspense. It also makes one respect the power of nature and the Adirondacks, and if you're a hiker, definitely helps you get an understanding of what can do wrong. The stories are numerous and just the right length. Just when you have reached the end of one, the next is beginning. Lastly the author does an excellent job of combining quotes in the beginning of each chapter from sources that I'm sure to follow up on and will make my reading list in the future. Good job and thanks for the awesome read!!!
My wife thinks I'm sick, but I'm a connoisseur of wilderness survival stories, and I think At the Mercy of the Mountains is one of the best of the genre . . . well written with a consistent tone and voice, excellent "side trips" that add to the enjoyment of the narrative, and a healthy regard for how things can go wrong.A person could learn a lot from your book, and I particularly enjoy that there is a bibliography and an index.I've been to the top of Giant, Cascade and Porter in the winter (well, not officially winter: Dec. 19) without midadventure, but you don't have to be Einstein (or is it Watson, now?) to know that things can go badly wrong very quickly.As a professional writer for 40 years, sitting by the comfort of my fire in Troy, NY, I just wanted to say to Peter Bronski: "Ya done good!"Anyone who loves outdoor adventure, the Adirondacks or is contemplating visiting them will enjoy and learn from this book.
My mother is from this area, and I have gone up my whole life (mid 40s) and this is the BEST book I think I have ever read about this area of the Adirondacks. A wonderful book - cannot recommend enough!!
I couldn't put it down. I've never been to the High Peaks and never had a desire to climb mountains before (I'm a camper). But now is like to visit some of these other places in the GREAT ADK MOUNTAINS. Maybe I'll even climb one or two albeit very prepared after reading this book.
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