Junko's Climb by Elyssa Gavin - ISBN: 9781454946830
Hardcover
Junko Tabei’s courageous Everest climb defied odds, inspiring generations.

$45.46

  • Hardcover

    48 pages

  • Release Date

    14 April 2026

Check Delivery Options

Summary

Spring 1975.

Fourteen climbers from the Ladies Climbing Club in Japan begin their climb up Mount Everest. Junko Tabei, a mountain climbing pioneer-the woman who formed the group -faces many hardships as she leads them: frigid temperatures, gusting winds, an avalanche, injuries, altitude sickness, and a death-defying ice ridge crossing. Yet she perseveres, and when she reaches the summit of Mount Everest, she becomes the first woman-and the 36th person-to do so!

While Junko mad…

Book Details

ISBN-13:9781454946830
ISBN-10:1454946830
Author:Elyssa Gavin, HifuMiyo
Publisher:Union Square & Co.
Imprint:Union Square Kids
Format:Hardcover
Number of Pages:48
Release Date:14 April 2026
Weight:500g
Dimensions:280mm x 224mm x 12mm
Series:People Who Shaped Our World
What They're Saying

Critics Review

“A thoughtfully rendered and visually striking portrait that honors disciplined perseverance and affirms strength steadily claimed in spaces resistant to inclusion.”

School Library Journal, Starred Review
“Text wraps around HifuMiyo’s inky retro artwork as it captures the drama of Tabei’s efforts with carefully sponged layers of color and a zoomed-out perspective that contrasts the protagonist’s human form with her chosen environment’s cold immensity.”–Publisher’s Weekly, Starred Review

”[T]he telling of this historic “first” is built on teamwork, trust, and women lifting one another up–rendered in crisp, high-contrast illustrations that make the snow, wind, and vertigo feel bracingly real.”

Oprah Daily

Inspirational and uplifting.

Booklist
A compelling testament to inner strength and deep friendship.–Kirkus

About The Author

Elyssa Gavin

Elyssa Gavin teaches English for Speakers of Other Languages at the middle school level. She previously taught kindergarten and first-grade special education classes, providing her with great insight into her audience. This is her debut picture book. She lives with her family in Olathe, KS.

HifuMiyo is a Japanese illustrator, who uses a combination of digital techniques and her knowledge of silkscreen printing to create textured and atmospheric illustrations. She focuses on creating personable characters, strong narratives, and calming environments. Born in Hiroshima, Japan, Miyo now lives in France.

Returns

This item is eligible for free returns within 30 days of delivery. See our returns policy for further details.