A New York Times Editor's Choice
1924. George Mallory is arguably the last great British explorer, having twice tried and failed to conquer Mount Everest. The mountain has haunted him, but his attempts have captivated the hearts of a nation desperate to restore its former glory after World War I. Yet George has sworn to his wife, Ruth, that he will not mount a third attempt. He will remain with her and their three children instead of again challenging the unreachable peak.
Then, one afternoon, Ruth reads a telegram addressed to George: Glad to have you aboard again. And...