Told in alternating timelines, In the Shadow of the Mountain illustrates how Vasquez-Lavado’s traumatic experiences impacted her throughout her life, from her childhood in Peru, to her tech start-up life in San Francisco, to the top of Mount Everest. This format so beautifully shows the constant connection to one’s inner child, although sometimes I did get confused about exactly when certain things happened. But upon finishing the book, I realized that doesn’t really matter. Sylvia’s mother (Theresa), the love of her life (Lori), and her childhood self in her blue track suit are always with her, and always part of her. Their stories are inspiring, heartbreaking, and true examples of resilience, determination, and hope.