Robert Mads Anderson is an elite mountaineer with a solitary goal: to conquer Everest. Nine Lives traces the story of Everest, from the big, nationally supported expeditions of the 1980s; through the small teams forging new routes and climbing solo; to the commercially guided expeditions of today.
‘An amazing story capturing the essence of life’s moments climbing on Everest.’ (Chris Bonington)
‘Robert’s story of climbing on all three sides of Everest is full of narrow escapes. But what really shines out is the canny wisdom, courage, determination and sheer fun-loving chutzpah of a defiant optimist.’ (Stephen Venables)
‘I must say this was some of the best writing I have enjoyed – ever! And not just mountaineering literature. Bravo!’ (Dr Peter Hackett, world-renowned high-altitude expert)
‘I could not have climbed with any better team while being led by the best. Thank you for sharing your ninth life with me on the slopes and the summit of Mount Everest.’ (Sibusiso Vilane, first black African to summit Everest)
‘Robert loves the environment of mountains, the challenge of mountains, the camaraderie built upon their flanks and the uncertainty that mountains toss into our lives.’ (Peter Hillary)
Robert Mads Anderson is a mountaineer, expedition leader and author. In 1988, he led the ascent of a new route on the Kangshung Face of
Everest, climbing without Sherpas or oxygen, before going on to climb the
Seven Summits, solo. In addition to climbing Everest twice over the course of nine expeditions, he has also reached the summits of Himalayan giants
Cho Oyu,
Shishapangma and
Makalu. He is the author of
7 Summits Solo,
To Everest via Antarctica and
Antonovs over the Arctic: Flying to the North Pole in Russian Biplanes, and he lectures widely, from the Smithsonian, Washington DC, to the annual Explorers Club dinner in New York City. When not on expedition, he lives in Manchester.