Previous

Although Tara Bishop does not appear extensively in the book, she acts as a crucial helpmate and anchor for Mortenson. In fact, Tara, who was brought up among explorers, seems almost uniquely suited to be Mortenson’s wife. Most importantly, she accepts Mortenson’s impetuous personality and erratic work schedule and maintains a home life that enables Mortenson to have some balance between work and family. Although she worries about Mortenson’s safety and lives in what she calls “functional denial” while he is away, she nonetheless never wavers in her support for his work. She even takes their two children on trips to Pakistan when she can. Tara does also recognize Mortenson’s flaws, and she encourages and helps him to make necessary personal changes, such as paying better attention to schedules.

Previous section Jean Hoerni

Popular pages: Three Cups of Tea

Take a Study Break