Into Thin Air

1) What is Krakauer’s first impression of Everest mountaineering when he is a child? Why does this change?

2) What is the difference between a commercial mountaineering expedition and a non-commercial venture? Why do some climbers condemn commercial expeditions on Everest?

3) Compare/contrast Fischer’s and Hall’s guiding styles. What are the benefits and drawbacks of each?

4) How does Hall acclimatize his clients?

5) Krakauer describes several non-commercial expeditions at base camp that year. What are noncommercial expeditions, and why do they pose such a threat to the climbers?