Mountain Trails [#13] - Interesting books about the Tatra Mountains

Stories about the mountains often make our hair stand on end. After all, mountains are not only captivating and beautiful views. They also encompass a huge amount of tragedy, difficult decisions, and human stories. If we dream of a moment of rest with a book in hand, but our heart still pulls us towards the mountains, it’s worth reaching for these three titles:

“TOPR: So Others Can Survive” Beata Sabała-Zielińska

A book that is the first to reveal the secrets and challenges of the work of the TOPR rescuers. The author managed to penetrate the community of rescuers, who modestly share stories of the missions they participated in, saving human lives. The author allows us to see the issue of accidents in the mountains from a completely different perspective, bringing us closer to the mission and work of TOPR rescuers. We have the chance to learn about both the history of TOPR and the contemporary image of this institution. The book can be read for pleasure, but we can also learn a lot from it. Beata Sabała-Zielińska simply makes us aware of how tough mountain rescue is. After reading this book, everyone will certainly start listening carefully to avalanche warnings, checking the weather before heading out so that they are always well-prepared for all possibilities in the mountains.

“Five Lakes: A House Without an Address” Beata Sabała-Zielińska

Another title from the previously mentioned author. This time it focuses on the story of the highest-placed hut in the Polish Tatra Mountains, namely the legendary "Five" in the Valley of Five Polish Lakes. A place that needs no introduction; everyone feels at home there. A perfect book for all lovers of mountain adventures. The book is not only about the history of the hut, but rather a tale of people, and accordingly, about passion, emotions, and sentiments. The author presents the history of the Krzeptowski family, who have been running the "Five" for a century, as well as the people who have been associated with them over the years. The legendary hut is shown through the lens of grey everyday life, which, however, while in the Tatras, is not entirely grey.

“Let It Be a Trail: A Chronicle of Death in the Mountains” Bartłomiej Kuraś

A book that teaches humility in the mountains. While reading, we can become very aware that nature plays the lead role in the mountains. Bartłomiej Kuraś recounts unusual accidents that have often ended in death, making the reader aware that chilling stories happen not only on famous eight-thousanders but also in our native Tatras. Furthermore, we will learn how TOPR was established and how costly the help it provides is. A book that everyone who hikes in the mountains or wants to start their adventure with mountain tourism should read. The author delves deeper into what happens in the Tatras, showing a different perspective – one in which we pose a threat to the Tatra flora and fauna.

Photo and text author: Ewa Bandyk