A book by Kenneth Kamler. Subtitle: What Happens to the Human Body at the Limits of Human Endurance.

I was afraid it was going to be testosterone-laden but, in fact, there are few superlatives. Kamler gives detailed physiological explanations of the how the body reacts to cold, altitude, poison, heat. It is quite fascinating and might even be useful for those of us who feel better outside in -30 °C than inside on the couch—which couch? Didn’t I trade it for a pair of skis?

I found the chapter on the jungle the most amazing. How people have been able to adapt to this hostile environment and, not the least, the incredible biodiversity. Kamler reminds us that, sadly, these guys are being lured by our unsustainable lifestyles. The old guide knows it’s wrong but he’s powerless against the carefree youngsters.

Here’s a link to Kamler’s TED presentation