First Ascent - by Kate Messner (Hardcover)

It might seem as if thoughtful Royal Robbins and wild Warren Harding had nothing in common. But they both loved rocks. BIG rocks. They had something else in common, too. The climbers paired up to attempt an epic Yosemite route. When they didn't make it to the top, they went their separate ways and soon became fierce rivals, breaking records and making history. Come along on the journey as these big-wall rock climbers play a daring game of one-upmanship, pushing the sport - and each other - to new heights as they rack up first ascents around Yosemite Valley during the golden age of climbing. Ultimately, the exploits of Royal, Warren, and their friends paved the way for the modern era of rock climbing, when its focus on Leave No Trace environmental ethics. Best-selling author Kate Messner and climber-illustrator Stevie Lewis bring to life a little known humor and wild adventure in one of the most thrilling places on Earth.