No Shortcuts to the Top

“Ed Viesturs is not merely one of our strongest mountaineers; he’s also one of the most remarkable. He’s demonstrated that it’s possible to climb the world’s highest peaks without taking reckless chances, and without sacrificing one’s honor or integrity. He has never hesitated to help other climbers in need, even when it meant putting himself in danger or sacrificing his own opportunity to achieve a summit. Ed, simply put, is a genuine American hero.”—Jon Krakauer

“Ed Viesturs—the first American to climb all fourteen 8,000 meter peaks without bottled oxygen—is an animal. A human animal blessed with enormous strength balanced by intelligence, honesty, and a heart of gold. And besides, HE IS A NICE GUY. This is a great read for those of us who climb, those who want to learn to climb and live to tell about it, and those who like great adventures.”—Jim Whittaker, first American to climb Mount Everest

“Ed Viesturs was an inspiration to me personally and to the Seahawks team in 2005. I highly recommend reading this account of one of America’s heroes.”—Mike Holmgren, former head coach of the Seattle Seahawks

Ed Viesturs became the first American to ascend all fourteen of the world’s 8,000-meter peaks in May 2005. He resides in Bainbridge Island, Washington, with his wife and three children. He continues to climb and pursue new adventures.

David Roberts was the author of more than twenty books on mountaineering, adventure, and history. His works include No Shortcuts to the Top, K2, and The Will to Climb, which he co-wrote with Ed Viesturs. He also penned the memoir On the Ridge Between Life and Death. Roberts contributed to publications such as National Geographic, National Geographic Adventure, and Smithsonian. He passed away in 2021.

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