At the Top of the World is a BooksForTopics Recommended Read for Year 4, 2025-2026

The summit is what drives us, but the climb itself is what matters.

This is a gorgeous atlas of eight of the world’s greatest mountains on all its continents: Everest, Fuji, Matterhorn, Kilimanjaro, Denali, Puncak Jaya, Chimborazo and Vinson Massif.

Clear, accessible texts by Robin Jacobs break down the geography of each mountain, its flora and fauna, the history of its conquest, tales of local populations and indigenous mythologies, and finally, how best to climb it. The routes to the summit are explained as are the individual climbing challenges posed by each mountain.

Further chapters provide information on how mountains are formed, climbing terms, how to tie knots and what to do in case of an avalanche. A must have for any young explorer or climbing enthusiast!

'Beautifully illustrated and full of information, this book pays tribute to the landscape of some of our greatest mountains and to those who have climbed them.' - The English Association
'An absorbing read, perfect for inspiring interest in some of the most fascinating places in the world. For teachers who are exploring this area of the curriculum with a class, this is a valuable resource, with its succinct explanations and appealing illustrations. Details about each mountain and ‘the climb’ of each are also given, making it a fascinating read - and perhaps inspiring the next generation of mountaineers!' - Through the Bookshelf

Robin Jacobs is a children’s television writer and author with a degree in Earth Sciences. She is the author of Earth-Shattering Events (2019), The Mellons Build a House (2023) and All About Flags (2024).

Ed J. Brown is British illustrator and writer living in Leipzig. His striking, humour-packed illustrations have featured in in various print publications. He is the author of Epic Animal Journeys (Cicada, 2022).