From fateful first attempts to the harrowing events of 1986 and more recent ascents, the book examines the human and natural factors that have given the mountain its reputation. Author Jim Curran traces the earliest explorations of the Karakorum by Godwin-Austen and Younghusband, as well as the pioneering exploits of the Duke of the Abruzzi. A K2 climber himself, Curran interviewed Kurt Diemberger, Jim Wickwire, Charlie Houston and other climbers to help shed new light on past expeditions and to look at the many challenges that remain on the mountain. DJ, Fine.