Joe Simpson was born on August 13, 1960, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, to a British Army officer father. Despite being born in Malaysia, he spent the majority of his childhood in England. It was during his time at Ampleforth College in North Yorkshire, England, that Simpson discovered his love for rock climbing.
After being introduced to rock climbing at Ampleforth College, Simpson knew that he had found his calling. He was inspired to pursue a career in mountaineering after reading Austrian climber Heinrich Harrer's memoir, The White Spider. This inspiration led him to embark on various climbing expeditions around the world.
One of Simpson's most famous expeditions was his treacherous climb of the West Face of the Peruvian Andes' Siula Grande peak in 1985. This harrowing experience was documented in his bestselling memoir, Touching the Void, which was published in 1988. The book details Simpson's struggle for survival after a near-fatal accident during the climb.
In addition to Touching the Void, Simpson has written several other books, including a novel titled The Sound of Gravity, which was published in 2011. His writing has received widespread acclaim and has solidified his reputation as a talented author in addition to being a skilled mountain climber.
Joe Simpson's remarkable story of survival and resilience has made him a household name in the world of mountaineering. His experiences have inspired countless individuals to push the boundaries of what is possible and to challenge themselves in the face of adversity.
Joe Simpson's passion for climbing and storytelling has solidified his legacy as a legendary figure in the world of mountaineering. His books continue to inspire readers around the world, and his courage in the face of extreme danger serves as a testament to the strength of the human spirit.