This book is "gripping" from the first moments through to the last. (pun totally intended)

In this book, Tommy Caldwell introduces the reader to his world of big wall rock climbing, alpine climbing, bouldering, and a bit of speed climbing. As he tells his story from birth to conquering a free climb of the Dawn Wall on El Capitan in Yosemite, Tommy also teaches the reader about climbing's history and techniques. But it's never boring! The deep, emotional descriptions of his life experiences - both social and physical - had me hanging on every word. This is a book for climbers, but also a layman like me. I thought the many, similar climbs he takes on would become repetitive, but each one felt unique and terrifying. I was impressed by the evocative similes he used to describe the climbing experience.

Overall, this book pushed me to work harder in my own physical activity. It was motivational AND just a great read. I didn't expect to give this book 5 stars, but man. It was good.