Have any read the book ( Archived) (4)

Yes I've read it, having visit the same region and been
similarly affected as Mortenson by it's people I found
it an inspiring read. It's amazing how he managed to
survive his original ordeal on K2. A situation made worse
by his unselfish act in saving fellow mountaineers lives
and of course in doing so ending any hopes of summiting the
peak, not to mention risking his life. It was only fitting
then that he should benefit, in fact have his own life saved
by people who by their very nature will give so much and ask
for nothing in return.
Mortenson's humbling experience leads him to re-evaluate his
life and question our shaky values in the west. What he does
in return for them is nothing short of astonishing.

"Here (in Pakistan and Afghanistan) we drink three cups of tea
to do business. The first you are a stranger, the second you
become a friend, and the third you join our family, and for
our family we are prepared to do anything-even die."

Haji Ali, Korphe Village Chief, Karakoram Mountains Pakistan