The West Face, by Guido Magnone; with a preface by Maurice Herzog. Translated by J. F. Burke. London: Museum Press, 1955. 166 pages; 15 photographs, 3 diagrams. Price 15 s.

Guido Magnone and his companions have once again illustrated that man has still an unquenchable desire to explore and conquer the unknown. By using special techniques (whether one thinks they are ethical or not), the most difficult, and at times frightening, climbing was accomplished. I do not think the author has to go as far as he does in attempting to justify his motives for climbing. Men climb for different reasons and let’s let it go at that. Needless to say, the organization and determination of the group that climbed the West Face of the Dru was of the highest order. A very readable book.

Jules M. Eichorn