-- Stories from the world's most experienced and respected climbers-- Selections are united by a single compelling theme-- Forewords by John Harlin and Mark SynottGlorious Failures is an engaging collection of the most famous and infamous almost-summits. Each account is about an expedition that failed to reach the summit, the top of a new route, or the right summit. The most memorable expeditions, the greatest heroism, the greatest exhibitions of human failings, the greatest leaps for climber-kind have been associated with a failed expedition, and each of these early attempts often rival the first successful ascent in fame and notoriety. Includes the story of the 1953 American expedition to K2 lead by Charles Houston, which came tantalizingly close to the summit and stands as symbol of all that is the best in mountaineering, told in fascinating detail by Jim Curran.