My Home in the Alps

"My Home in the Alps" by Aubrey Le Blond is a late 1800s travel memoir that mixes personal stories with handy tips about Switzerland's Alps. It’s probably for people who enjoy easy trips and serious climbs. The story is largely driven by the author's experiences in the alpine regions. The book focuses on the special talents and lives of mountain guides, also showing what life and culture are like high in the mountains. The book starts with a reason given by the author for writing it, which is to help travelers in Switzerland learn important things, especially about mountain guides. Mrs. Main points out some wrong ideas people have about these guides and highlights how well-trained and helpful they are in mountain climbing. She tells stories and gives insights about what makes a guide great, like being careful, strong-willed, skilled, and resourceful, which sets the stage for looking closer at alpine life and how climbing works.