Review by jov13 -- The Altitude Journals by David J Mauro

[jov13]

[Following is a volunteer review of "The Altitude Journals" by David J Mauro.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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In the novel The Altitude Journals David J. Mauro shows us his lowest point in life, and how mountain climbing helped him realize his potential and move past all the road blocks and trials he had been facing. Motivational and utterly inspiring, we read, step by step, David’s journey from recent broken down divorcee to a man standing literally on top of the world.

Let me first state that I am not one for non-fiction or autobiographies, but this book spoke so much to my soul that I just couldn’t not love it. I considered that to give this book a bad review would be bordering on insanity. My first impression, having read the synopsis was that it was going to be more about the mountains. But it wasn’t just. It was about the insight the mountains gave. How they caused one human to reach his highest potential, to discover and come to terms with himself and all he struggled with. I found the novel to be very inspirational and I even learned alongside the writer as he shared his real life experiences.

I loved the comedic tones throughout the story. It gave the novel a light air and created a comfortable, homey space. This caused me to enjoy it all the more. I also enjoyed his writing. The novel was very well written and had no grammatical errors. The writer also explained terminology or tools and methods associated with mountain climbing. This was much appreciated, having read so many books that have used language/jargon that makes the novel incomprehensible at certain parts. It allowed the books to be applicable or interesting to those beyond mountain climbers who would have already been familiar with the jargon.

That being said, I believe this book could be read by anyone, but however, may be more suited to those that have an interest in memoirs or mountain climbing in any regard. This, though, due to the relatable and easily comprehensive language, does not put an actual limit on who outside of that circle could enjoy this book.
Another thing enjoyed about the book was how open the writer was with the readers, he exposed even the most personal areas of his life with us, which was something I found deserving of high respect. His openness also helped to connect the readers to him, where his emotions, failures and successes were shared and understood.

The novel also included pictures which were often seen after having completed the mountain. This made the novel more believable, separating it even more from a regular fictional story.
Due to the danger associated with mountain climbing, the danger associated with the mountains themselves, I came to believe that a death of at least one mountain climber would have been imminent. I expected it to be a more personal death, but despite this, personal or not it emphasized the truth of the story, where fact is that mountain climbing is dangerous and takes an amount of lives per year.

I rate this novel 4 out of 4 stars. For its exceptional writing, inspirational and honest content, information and comedy, I strongly believe that it deserves no less.

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The Altitude Journals
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