One small man, one giant mountain: a Sherpa’s quest to create a better future, one perilous step at a time.

Every success story begins with a single step in the right direction. Pem Dorjee Sherpa's journey began with a determination to break the cycle of poverty and abuse he was born into. To do that, Pem will have to summon the resilience, courage, and resolve to do what others only dream of: summit Mt. Everest.

While much has been written about the elite climbers who attempt to conquer Everest, Pem's account is from the rarely heard point of view of a Sherpa. Genetically adapted to life at high altitude and with very few options for making a living, the Sherpas who join climbing expeditions put their own lives on the line to make the dreams of elite climbers come true. Pem’s account is an inside look at the realities of this life, as well as the social and cultural hurdles he must overcome to be with Moni, his feisty and independent Newari wife.

Join Pem in this inspiring tale of one man's quest to create a brighter future, one perilous step at a time.

This discussion guide was shared and sponsored in partnership with DartFrog Books.

Beyond Everest

Beyond Everest Book Club Questions PDF