Sacred Mountain: Everest

Best Children's Books of the Year, Barnes & Noble Review
Society of Midland Authors Award, Juvenile Nonfiction, The Society of Midland Authors
Walter Williams Major Work Award, Missouri Writers' Guild

A photo-essay exploring the cultural, geological, and ecological history of Mount Everest, focusing on the indigenous Sherpa and their spiritual connection to the mountain, record-setting climbing expeditions, and the effects of tourism on the environment.

Mount Everest--a place of mystery, majesty, and unparalleled beauty--rises into the sky higher than any other mountain on Earth. Many stories have been told about the dangers and triumphs of climbing to the summit; but few have been written about the Sherpa, the people who have lived on the mountain for centuries and consider it sacred. Known for their bravery, strength, and skill in navigating the mountain's treacherous slopes, Sherpas have played a crucial role in Mount Everest's exploration since the 1920s. In recent years, however, increasing tourism has threatened the mountain's fragile ecosystem. The Sherpa now face the challenge of restoring and protecting this sacred mountain for their future and for the world. With stunning photographs and engaging text, Scared Mountain presents a unique picture of Mount Everest--its history, its ecology, and especially its people--that will captivate readers of all ages.

Christine Taylor-Butler has written more than sixty books for children, including biographies, state histories, and several science and fiction series. She is also the author of the award-winning Sacred Mountain, published by Lee & Low Books. An avid reader since she was a child, Taylor-Butler believes that for many children books are their introduction to the vast diversity on our planet. Taylor-Butler is a past president of the Missouri Writers Guild, sits on the board of their children's literature chapter, and is a member of the MIT Regional Educational

Council. She lives in Kansas City, Missouri, with her husband and their two daughters. Visit her online at ChristinTaylorButler.com.