Penjačevi zapisi - put do najviših vrhova svijeta

Stipe Božić, a famous Croatian alpinist, speleologist, documentarian and photographer, offers a comprehensive account of his life in 246 pages, from humble beginnings to conquering the world's highest peaks. The book, illustrated with photographs by Ivo Božić and in a softcover, is structured fragmentarily, but creates a coherent story about a man whose life is inextricably linked to the mountains.

Božić begins the story in his hometown of Zavojani at the foot of Mount Sv. Mihovil, where childhood and nature shaped his passion for mountaineering. He describes moving to Split, his first mountaineering steps in the Marjan Mountaineering Club, and later entering the world of mountaineering. His life path takes him through various phases: military service, work in a construction company, navigation on a ship, life in Sudan, work on Croatian Television and service in the Mountain Rescue Service. Each stage brings new experiences, but the mountains remain a constant.

The central part of the book is dedicated to mountaineering achievements. Božić describes in detail two ascents to Mount Everest (1979 and 1989), which made him the first Croat to climb the world's highest peak. The conquest of the seven highest peaks of all continents (Seven Summits) and the record-breaking descent into Luke's cave, the deepest cave in the world, testify to his physical and mental strength. Along with triumphs, the book does not avoid tragedies - loss of friends in the mountains, dangers and emotional scars. Božić writes candidly about personal challenges, including two marriages and a relationship with children, which gives the book a deeply human dimension.

The book is more than a chronicle of a climb; it is a meditation on life. Božić shares his thoughts on the honesty, freedom, and respect that mountains instill. His relationship with nature is deeply spiritual, and he sees mountains as teachers who confront man with his own limits. The fragmentary writing style reflects the dynamics of his life, while the skillful narrative voice makes the story accessible and exciting. With rich descriptions of nature, from the Himalayan peaks to the Dalmatian mountains, the book is imbued with authenticity and passion.

A Climber's Notes is not just a story of mountaineering, but also of an inner journey, where courage, loss, and the search for meaning intertwine. Božić's book inspires readers to embrace challenges and respect nature, making it a valuable read for mountaineering enthusiasts, but also for those seeking deeper life truths.