Why We Climb is a celebration, in word and image, of those aspects of the climbing life that are most universal, meaningful, and long lasting- the strong connection to partners and nature; the physical and mental mastery required (and how to achieve it); the rewards of exploring oneself and the world through climbing. Through interviews with some of North America's most notable climbers the book undertakes a quest to find the soul of climbing- asking what compels men and women to dedicate their lives to the challenges and deprivations of living in a vertical world? What are the sacrifices and what are the rewards? And most importantly, can the lessons learned on cliff faces, frozen waterfalls, and alpine peaks- lessons of respect, discipline, commitment, humility and simplicity-be brought home and used to benefit society as a whole?

About the Author
Recognized as one of the world's leading adventure photographers, Chris Noble is a writer and visual communicator whose work celebrates the beauty of nature, and inspires people to live healthier, more mindful, and sustainable lives. A veteran of over thirty expeditions, ranging from Denali to Everest to the jungles of Borneo, Noble's writing and photography have appeared in hundreds of publications worldwide, including Life, National Geographic, Newsweek, Orion, Outside, Rolling Stone, and Sports Illustrated as well as numerous books and anthologies. He has served as a contributing editor at Powder and Outdoor Photographer magazines.

Reviews
"Why We Climb shows in clear and simple terms why risk and adventure-embracing the big unknown-is the spark that lights our lives on fire. Without adventure, we'd never build pyramids or shoot for the stars. Without risk, we're all just biding time..." -John Long, climbing legend and bestselling author of How to Rock Climb!
"Chris Noble's essays on why people climb are as fascinating as they are varied. From 'living intentionally high above the ground' to following a chosen path that leads to 'a life of coherence, integrity and purpose,' there is much to inspire, not only for climbers, but for anyone interested in creating a life of boldness and grace." -Bernadette McDonald, author of Freedom Climbers and Alpine Warriors
'Truly a phenomenal book that has allowed me to reflect on the activity/sport/religion that is my life. Thanks for showing your poetic words and the real stories that touch us on a deeper level.' -Jonathan Vickers, Digital Content Manager, Momentum Climbing Gyms
'I'd grown tired of reading about climbing, but I believe every climber regardless of level or experience should read Chris Noble's new book.' -Louis Arevalo, Photojournalist and Climber
'It's rare that I pick up a book and have a hard time putting it down, but Why We Climb is one of those. I've only had it a few hours and have been sucked in. Though I've only read a few pages, and looked at all the photos and read all the captions, I am thoroughly impressed. The only reason I put it down today was because I wanted to go climbing.' -Alpinist Jay Smith
'Great job! I knew you could shoot but I didn't know you could write like this. We haven't really had a coffee table book for ages but this one has been sitting front and center - for thrills, for inspiration or for the memories of people and places - and all in such life-rich color. ' -Peter Croft
'This is Alex Honnold's mom. I just wanted to congratulate you on a beautiful book! It really gets you into the head of a climber - but it's also filled with great life lessons for all of us, climber or not. A philosophical learning tool.Visually beautiful, riveting text-just a captivating piece of work to be proud of. Nicely done!' -Dierdre Wolownick



Book Information
ISBN 9781493018536
Author Chris Noble
Format Paperback
Page Count 320
Imprint Falcon Guides
Publisher Rowman & Littlefield
Weight(grams) 454g
Dimensions(mm) 235mm * 191mm * 13mm