One of my all-time favorite authors, Jon Krakauer, has captivated readers worldwide, amassing over 1.9 million ratings on Goodreads with an impressive average rating of 4.03. Known for his gripping books like "Into Thin Air" and "Into the Wild," Krakauer's background as a mountaineer lends an authentic and thrilling perspective to his storytelling. Recognized with an Academy Award in Literature from the American Academy of Arts and Letters, Krakauer was praised for "combining the tenacity and courage of the finest tradition of investigative journalism with the stylish subtlety and profound insight of the born writer."
If you're looking to dive into Krakauer's compelling works, I highly recommend starting with any of his novels. Below, we've ranked his books based on readers' ratings to help you choose your next read.
#6: Three Cups of Deceit: How Greg Mortenson, Humanitarian Heron, Lost His Way
Avg. Goodreads Rating: 3.72 / 5
Number of Ratings: 10,939
Jon Krakauer's book reveals the true story behind Greg Mortenson, a celebrated humanitarian and Nobel Peace Prize nominee known for his books "Three Cups of Tea" and "Stones into Schools." Krakauer uncovers that Mortenson fabricated significant portions of these bestsellers and misused millions in donations. This book tells the tragic tale of how Mortenson's seemingly good intentions went disastrously wrong.
#5: Under the Banner of Heaven: A Story of Violent Faith
Avg. Goodreads Rating: 4.01 / 5
Number of Ratings: 208,126
"Under The Banner of Heaven: A Story of Violent Faith" explores the extremes of religious belief within the United States. The book centers on the horrifying double murder committed by Mormon Fundamentalist brothers Ron and Dan Lafferty, who claimed they were commanded by God to kill. Krakauer meticulously details this crime, creating a chilling narrative of religious fanaticism, violence, and polygamy. He delves into isolated communities in the American West, Canada, and Mexico, where tens of thousands of Mormon Fundamentalists reject the mainstream Mormon Church for abandoning polygamy. These sects are led by zealots who claim divine authority and maintain strict control over their followers, often engaging in practices like marrying multiple wives, some of whom are underage. Krakauer weaves the Lafferty brothers' story with an examination of Mormonism's violent history, offering a compelling look at religious extremism in America.
#4: Into the Wild
Avg. Goodreads Rating: 4.01 / 5
Number of Ratings: 1,094,987
"Into the Wild" by Jon Krakauer tells the gripping and tragic story of Christopher Johnson McCandless, a young man from a wealthy background who, after graduating college, abandoned his possessions and hitchhiked to Alaska to live in the wilderness. Inspired by literary heroes like Jack London and John Muir, he sought a life of raw adventure and named himself Alexander Supertramp. However, his journey ended fatally when his body was found by a moose hunter four months later. Krakauer explores McCandless's motivations and mistakes, piecing together his quest for meaning and freedom with deep empathy and insight, while also critically examining the allure and dangers of such a radical path. The book is both mesmerizing and heartbreaking, showcasing Krakauer's powerful storytelling.
#3: Where Men Win Glory: The Odyssey of Pat Tillman
Avg. Goodreads Rating: 4.07 / 5
Number of Ratings: 39,364
In "Where Men Win Glory," Jon Krakauer tells the compelling story of Pat Tillman, an NFL star who left a $3.6 million contract to join the U.S. Army after 9/11. Deeply affected by the attacks, Tillman felt a moral duty to fight against al-Qaeda and the Taliban. Tragically, he was killed by friendly fire in Afghanistan in 2004, a fact the Army initially concealed. Krakauer uses Tillman's journals, interviews with his family and friends, and extensive research to paint a detailed portrait of this complex and driven individual. The book explores Tillman's unique character and the heartbreaking events leading to his death, shedding light on the harsh realities of war.
#2: Missoula: Rape and the Justice System in a College Town
Avg. Goodreads Rating: 4.11 / 5
Number of Ratings: 54,624
In "Missoula," Jon Krakauer examines the epidemic of sexual assault in a typical American college town, highlighting the experiences of several women who were raped and the subsequent failures of the justice system and university administration. From 2008 to 2012, the Department of Justice investigated 350 reported sexual assaults in Missoula, most of which were mishandled. Krakauer delves into why rape is prevalent on campuses and why victims are often reluctant to report it. He documents the personal trauma and public vilification these women faced, their interactions with law enforcement, and the flawed judicial process. Krakauer's thorough account challenges common misconceptions about rape and calls for a more compassionate and just response to this pervasive crime.
#1: Into Thin Air: A Personal Account of the Mt. Everest Disaster
Avg. Goodreads Rating: 4.24 / 5
Number of Ratings: 508,602
Jon Krakauer's "Into Thin Air" recounts his harrowing experience on Mt. Everest during the deadliest climbing season in the mountain's history. On May 10, 1996, Krakauer reached the summit but descended into a storm that claimed several lives and left others with severe frostbite. Sent by Outside Magazine to report on the commercialization of Everest, Krakauer joined a team led by famed guide Rob Hall, while another expedition was led by Scott Fischer, an accomplished climber. Krakauer explores the intense allure of mountaineering and why climbers risk their lives to reach the peak. His detailed and emotionally charged account provides a gripping, firsthand perspective on the tragedy.
Average rating and number of reviews from Goodreads. Last updated: 5/15/2024