The Call of the Mountains

Publication Year: 1953.

The Call of the Mountains, by Colin Wyatt. 96 pages, 75 illustrations and 9 sketch maps. London: Thames and Hudson, 1952. Price, 35/-.

The “call” is ski-mountaineering. The places are many, but mostly less-known mountains. About eight illustrations fall short of measuring up to an excellent standard of mountain (and snow) photography. Somewhat poor quality of paper tends to lessen the effect of the fine artistry shown by Wyatt’s pictures.

The author writes at a pleasing pace, shussing us by words (and pictures) from ranges in Albania to New Zealand, including Morocco, the Alps, Canada, Lapland, and Australia. These extensive journeys enable him to compare the distinctive terrain features found in different ranges. But his point of view, it must be said, is always that of a climber on his beloved skis. Of foot travel practically nothing is said. This is in no way a drawback, for his thoughts are so convincingly set down that one begins almost to share the feelings and enthusiasms for ski travel of this former British ski-jumping champion.

Here in one mountain book is a delightful combination—a charming way of telling about personal adventure, coupled with compelling photography. Therein lies the “call” for the reader.

Herbert J. Kothe