BOOK REVIEW


ONE MOUNTAIN TWO MINDS


Jonathan Mearns O.B.E pens down his experiences as he navigates life’s obstacles and talks about how to build true resilience during adversity


kind of challenge, emphasising the unpredictability of nature. As temperatures plummet and porters struggle for survival, Jonathan faces his own battle for life, going beyond the traditional boundaries of his counter- terrorism role. The transition to part three of the story marks a significant shift as Jonathan reflects on the broader implications of his experiences. Here, the focus turns to the metaphorical


“One Mountain Two Minds” delves into the compelling narrative of Jonathan, a counter-terrorism liaison officer who, upon returning from Africa, shares a gripping account of his experiences in a non-fiction book that transcends the boundaries of excitement and adventure. The narrative begins with the unexpected


revelation of overseas roles like Jonathan’s, shedding light on the less glamorous aspects of counter-terrorism efforts. The toll such a role takes on an individual becomes palpable through Jonathan’s words, painting a nuanced picture of the emotional aftermath of being involved in terror attacks. The heart of the book lies in Jonathan’s meticulous and emotional descriptions of the personal effects of witnessing and managing the aftermath of a terror attack, notably the Al-Shabaab attack on a hotel in Nairobi, Kenya. Far from positioning himself as a hero, Jonathan humbly portrays the emotional highs and desperate lows experienced during day-long shifts in the wake of such devastating events. Part two of the narrative takes an unexpected turn as Jonathan describes his climb up a seemingly straightforward mountain on the Uganda-Congo border. This section introduces a different


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mountains we all face in everyday life. Jonathan encourages readers to embrace the idea that reaching the top is only half the journey and is optional. The real challenge lies in the descent, leaving a legacy, and sharing the wisdom gained along the way. The relatability of Jonathan’s challenges


extends beyond the exotic locales of Africa and treacherous mountain climbs. Part three serves as a call to action, urging readers to confront their own mountains.


“The narrative is a rollercoaster of emotions, at times terrifying and consistently


moving. It prompts readers to contemplate their own existence, mortality, and the preciousness of life.”


It emphasises the necessity of doing the work, thinking differently, and embracing change to overcome personal obstacles. Jonathan’s message resonates with the notion that conquering one’s mountain is not just a personal achievement but a responsibility to share the knowledge gained for the benefit of others. The narrative is a rollercoaster of emotions, at times terrifying and consistently moving. It prompts readers to contemplate their own existence, mortality, and the preciousness of life. Jonathan’s unique perspective on death


and life’s fragility becomes a guiding force, steering the story away from a mere adventure tale into a profound exploration of the human spirit. Jonathan’s post-book journey reflects the transformative power of his experiences. He transitions from counter-terrorism work to creating a business, London Christmas Tree Rental, and coaching and speaking events utilising his lifetime of African experiences to motivate and inspire others. His story becomes a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the capacity for personal growth in the face of adversity. He came face to face with some of the hardest experiences anyone could go through then he builds on those and his vulnerability which then made him take a closer look at his life and how he wanted to navigate it.


In conclusion, “One Mountain Two Minds” is not just a recounting of exotic adventures and harrowing experiences; it’s a guide for navigating the mountains we all encounter in life. Jonathan’s journey becomes a metaphorical beacon, encouraging readers to confront their challenges with courage, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.


“One Mountain, Two Minds: Taking the Mountain Metaphor to the Next Level”, is available to buy online at Amazon.co.uk, and in WHSmith.


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