The Conquest of Everest

Given that over 5,000 ascents to the summit have been made by over 3,000 people, it might not seem like a big deal — but when Hillary and Norgay made their way to the Top of the World 60 years ago, it was indeed a BFD. The Conquest of Everest: Original Photographs from the Legendary First Ascent ($27) takes you inside this legendary event through photographs and other materials climber and photographer George Lowe, who was with Hillary and Norgay on that first expedition. In addition to the 167 photos and illustrations, the book also features contributions from Reinhold Messner, Sir Chris Bonington, Peter Hillary, Doug Scott, Stephen Venables, and Norbu Tenzing Norgay and the late Sir Edmund Hillary themselves. Great for history buffs, climbing enthusiasts, or for making you wonder if you'll ever do anything noteworthy in your lifetime.