Earth's Incredible Places: Everest

Sangma Francis and Lisk Feng have created an interesting learning resource with the book 'Earth's incredible places: Everest'.

Importantly and helpfully, Mt Everest is contextualised through the land and people. We learn Mt Everest, the Three Faced Goddess, has various names according to location e.g. in Tibet - Cholungma or in Nepal- Sagarmatha.

With a useful structure, the book outlines geographical facts – tectonics of the Himalayas, their height and a short biography of discoverer Radhanath Sikdar. There are descriptions of animals and flora below 3000 metres followed by the alpine environment (flora,fauna, glaciers) above 3000 metres including Mt Everest. Seasonal influences and climate change impacts are noted.

The reader learns that the two religions: Hinduism and Buddhism are separate followings, but both groups of followers can worship in one special temple – the Muktinath. Descriptions of the Sherpa lifestyle, clothing and culture are coloured by legends such as Shambala, the Ganga, the Five sisters of Long Life, and the Yeti.

Having explored the people and land around Everest the reader experiences the challenge of mountaineering, base camp, oxygen masks and climbing risks. Historical ascents are described that paved the way for inventions to make ascents easier. Significant ascents are listed including the youngest 13-year-old boy and girl.

In 'Earth’s incredible places: Everest' the pages are clearly laid out with headings, illustrations, contents, glossary, index and teacher notes to signpost fact and legend. 'Everest' is an enticing, fascinating learning experience. I wish it had been on my bookshelf as a child.