Combining adventure story, travel log, and personal confession, this absorbing account describes a wrenching experience that belies the idealistic expectations of many Peace Corps volunteers. Following a stint as a volunteer teacher in a Nepalese village, Phil Deutschle sets off alone on an expedition to conquer Pharchamo, 20,580 feet high, which has claimed several lives. This trek forms the framework of the book, and into it Deutschle weaves the story of his experiences in sharply etched, swiftly moving, often humorous anecdotes.