Peak by Roland Smith

While rifling through a box of books I still need to unpack, I found Peak, a book I think I acquired for free at one of my literature classes at BYU. I honestly don't remember it at all. But for whatever reason it appealed to me (I think it's because of the oncoming winter weather).

The book details the experience of a teenage boy who climbs Everest. The back of the book says:

When fourteen-year-old Peak Marcello's long-lost father presents the opportunity for them to summit Everest together, Peak doesn't even consider saying no--even though he suspects there are a few strings attached. And if he makes it to the top before his birthday, he'll be the youngest person ever to stand above 29,000 feet. It's not a bad turn of events for a guy who's been stuck in New York City with only skyscrapers to (illegally) scale.

Overall, I very much enjoyed this book. The characters are well-rounded and interesting--enough so that when the action slows to a near stand-still I was still enjoying what I was reading. The mountain climbing aspect of the book was also very intriguing. I am not a mountain climber and have no aspirations to become one, but the descriptions of the climbing experience were so detailed that I assumed the author must be a real climber. (After googling and perusing his website, I am still unsure.)

Peak was chosen as an ALA Quick Pick for Reluctant Young Adult Readers (among several awards), and I can see that this book could really appeal to teens who are interested in outdoor activities.

I would recommend this book to anyone looking for an interesting, feel-good, quick read.