Shortlist 2011

This year there were 23 entries for the award. They were generally of a very good quality and came from the UK, Ireland, USA, Canada and South Africa. The range of subject matter was as ever diverse and included biography, fiction, much historical material (Everest and K2 continue to fascinate writers), travel accounts and spiritual journeys.

The judges for 2011, Barry Imeson (Chair), Bernard Newman and Lindsay Griffin, have announced the following shortlist :

Desert Towers by Steve 'Crusher' Bartlett, published by Sharp End Publishing      352 pages   $49.95 (USA)

A strikingly illustrated history of climbing on the sandstone pillars of the Colorado Plateau.

Murder in the Hindu Kush by Tim Hannigan, published by The History Press          254 pages    £18.99

A page turning story of George Hayward's impressive explorations in the Western Himalaya and the conflicting stories surrounding his murder in the Hindu Kush.

Freedom Climbers by Bernadette McDonald, published by Rocky Mountain Books       288 pages    $32.95 (Canada)

The story of how Polish climbers emerged after the Second World War and the rigours of the Russian occupation, and dominated high altitude climbing.

An atmospheric novel of life, loss and redemption in the high Alps.

Shadow of the Matterhorn by Ian Smith, published by Carreg Ltd         336 pages           £25.00

A well researched biography charting Edward Whymper's journey from apprentice engraver to celebrated mountaineer and explorer.