Jim Donini's groundbreaking journey to the top: tragedy, redemption, and a Patagonian peak at age 74

"A bold and full account of a remarkable climbing life, exceptionally well told... "--Yvon Chouinard

Jim Donini has been an icon of American climbing for the past 50 years, pushing the boundaries of alpine ascents around the world and inspiring generations with his achievements. In Survival Is Not Assured, award-winning author Geoff Powter dives into Donini's remarkable life story, exploring his groundbreaking climbs and his tumultuous experiences both on and off the rock. From the tragic death of his best friend in a car accident to his integral role in the Yosemite Valley Uprising," Donini's life has been a roller coaster of highs and lows, but his spirit of resilience and determination has been unyielding.

Through personal interviews and never-before-shared stories, this authorized biography examines the life and legacy of this iconic climber, providing an inspiring and thought-provoking look at an American legend.

Geoff Powter has been a mountain writer, editor and presenter for more than 30 years. He has written pieces for magazines and newspapers around the globe, was the editor of the renowned Polar Circus magazine and spent 13 years at the helm of the Canadian Alpine Journal. He has been the host of the Voices of Adventure interview series at the Banff Mountain Book Festival for the past 20 years, and has been a regular contributor to CBC Radio and to the Globe and Mail travel section. He is the author of Strange and Dangerous Dreams: The Fine Line Between Adventure and Madness. Geoff Powter lives in Canmore, AB.

Geoff Powter's profile page

"A bold and full account of a remarkable climbing life, exceptionally well told..." --Yvon Chouinard