Kate Nicholson | Behind Everest: Ruth Mallory’s Story

Behind Everest is a captivating exploration of Ruth Mallory, wife of legendary Everest climber George Mallory, and Kate Nicholson’s parallel journey a century later.

Kate’s two decades of research into Ruth Mallory’s life took her to forgotten archives in the UK and USA, conversations with those who knew the Mallorys, and access to rare private collections. She has uncovered the real story of Ruth and George’s marriage, including George’s relationships with other women. Ruth Mallory was a pioneering climber in her own right and co-founded the UK’s first all-female rock climbing club, the Pinnacle Club, which Kate herself joins to experience the challenges and triumphs of the sport in an attempt to understand her subject more deeply.

This book goes beyond Everest, offering a profound glimpse into the untold story of Ruth and George Mallory. Through Ruth’s lens, Kate paints a vivid portrait of resilience, ambition, and the pursuit of adventure.

Talk length: 1 hour including Q&A, followed by a book signing.

Bookseller: P&G Wells Ltd

The Winchester Cathedral Café is the ideal place to refuel during Winchester Books Festival, only a stones throw away from the Wessex Centre. Open daily from 9.30am – 5.00pm, the menu showcases fresh, local ingredients.

Café information: https://www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk/welcome/cafe/