From the front cover with Mick Parker's
quizzical half grin to the back cover showing him on the summit of Makalu; James Knight's "Spirit High" recounting the Mick Parker story is a thumping good read from cover to cover.
He tells of a stubborn determined likeable Aussie larrikin who relentlessly pursued his dream of summiting all the 8000 metre +
mountains in the world. He was true
mountaineer disdaining the use of oxygen and Sherpas or porters to carry his load. He was a purist. In addition to his climbing friends and associates he related to Special Force soldiers
in the Commando Regiment, stalwarts like
Keith Hughes who introduced him as a boy to rock and ropes and rappelling;Rob Prior and Jim Truscott, themselves noted alpinists, who mentored Mick. For myself speaking as a former Commando officer I wouldn't want to command a platoon of Mick Parkers; but if I did have that misfortune the buggers would be unbeatable. So!! Read the book and hit the bin and support the Michael Parker
Foundation.

Ian Storey

THOROUGHLY ENJOYED THE BOOK GREAT READ FOR EVERYONE TO ENJOY.

Inspiring and adventurous. Great read for anyone.

A great book of a man with determination, generosity, who lived life to the full. Highly recommended

Spirit high ... spirit singular ... spirit growing ... the story of a life sadly ended too soon. Doing just about everything his own way, usually unobtrusively, Mick Parker held fast to his independently formed standards and conquered the heights, both in the mountains and in his care of those he encountered who were in need. This book, which looks and feels good in the hand, tells Mick's story earthily and honestly. It concludes with a heart-felt tribute from his mother, typifying the tone of this excellent book from James Knight ... it is real. It tells a straight story of a strong, adventurous and perceptive man lost too young for his family, friends and colleagues. Well worth reading.

An amazing story of a man with strong determination and braveness. Great book to read

Great story of a young man determined to follow his dreams no matter what the odds .high in both spirit and generosity great read.

I found the book to be an excellent insight into a very special person who sought no attention for his achievements.Determined,dedicated to his beliefs and a credit to his family and would recommend the book to anyone who needs inspiration to pursue their dreams.Will treasure and re-read.

This is the story of how true grit and determination is shown by Mick to not only follow his dreams, but also shows the kind person that Mick was in helping anyone that came into contact with him.
Very moving story

Being a hard rock climber myself,I can't imagine climbing on ice and not being able to breathe. I read a couple of chapter's twice just to comprehend the effort it took to do it. A credit to his family and to every one who knew him. I loved the book.

For those of us who were lucky enough raised in a rural or semi rural area with the freedom to explore and experience nature first hand. This is a great read. Mick grew up developing a dream and becoming one with nature and himself. To achieve what he achieved. Mick had to have had all the attributes of the true meaning of the word spirit. He left behind some broken hearts I am sure, but he did not leave wondering.

He led an inspirational life - not just in his achievements but also in how he led his life. Determined in achieving his goals while maintaining compassion with all those near him. Great read! Buy it! The profit goes to a very worthy cause!

A gripping true story of one man's determination, passion for adventure and for the people he met. His single mindedness saw him achieve what other don't ever dare to dream. His compassion for the Nepalese people was inspiring. Great read

You do not have to be into climbing to enjoy this book. It is a fantastic read from start to finish. Mick never wanted to put on a show. He was an honest and strong willed man who had the courage to follow his dream.

How do you go from cross country running and paddling a Kayak on the Yarra River to climbing the worlds highest peaks?
Here is the story of a young man who did this and more, someone who was always looking to see what was around the next bend or over the next hill.
A great read about a young man who truly loved to experience life and who was forever looking forward to the next challenge with a smile and a helping hand to those around him.

Adventurous Spirit

The factual sequence of events described in the book, are not for the fainthearted who may be uncomfortable outside their comfort zone. The book makes even more interesting reading when you know the family and some of the charactors involved. An adventurous young man, who was not satisfied with achieving half his dreams. No, there was always another mountain higher and harder that would challenge him to be conquered. It was almost like, its either the mountain or me. Knowing the family, I believe it was inevitable, that Mike was aiming to raise the bar of personal achievements in his own sphere of action. "Per adua adastra"

A moving but dramatic story of a many-faceted human who was brave, rugged, and determined to achieve the goals he set himself - climb the highest mountains; he was also humorous, caring and compassionate and strongly supported the Nepalese communities he lived among. An easy-to-read story of an adventurous young man who left us too soon.

An inspiring book for a courageous and great young man. I highly recommend!

This is a story of a great Australian. Highly recommended

the account of an adventurous climber, independent thinker,determined yet enormously compassionate and humble young man whose life was cut short in his prime. He leaves a legacy worthy the man. This is an example of human endeavour, success and generosity we could all strive to achieve. Should be read.
There are lessons of life here particularly for the young.

A must read

I thoroughly enjoyed the book, it was a great read and I was impressed by the determination and spirit of a person.

I would recommend this book as a must read.