The Climber's Handbook

Library Journal

Hattingh, an experienced rock climber and mountaineer, has written a thorough and up-to-date handbook for the growing sport. And "handbook" is the operative word here, because while this is comprehensive in scope, it necessarily lacks the depth it could offer for each facet of climbing. Included are histories of climbing, with notable first ascents, biographies of notable climbing pioneers and contemporaries, geology, climbing techniques thoroughly illustrated with drawings and excellent color photos and equipment carefully illustrated and explained. Separate chapters treat sport, traditional, big wall, snow and ice, and alpine climbing and expeditions. Eleven years ago, another Climber's Handbook was reviewed in these pages (LJ 5/1/87), and libraries that purchased it should purchase this one also, as it updates a constantly changing sport. Highly recommended.Thomas K. Fry, Univ. of Denver Lib.