Although he wrote the book in the aftermath of the tragedy, Kasischke waited 16 years to release After the Wind.

The book focuses on the events leading up to the ascent, Kasischke’s experiences on the mountain, and his motivation for turning around 400 feet from the summit, as well as the close relationship he shares with his wife, Sandy.

Though Kasischke avoids blaming any single person for the tragedy, he does note that the presence of journalist Jon Krakauer may have caused guide Rob Hall, whose Adventure Consultants business was in competition with Scott Fischer’s Mountain Madness, to take uncharacteristic risks on the mountain in an effort to get as many clients as possible to the summit and subsequently receive favorable press from Krakauer's report.

Regardless of why the tragedy occurred, Kasischke’s account provides an eye-opening look at the perils and extreme conditions on Everest.

Evocative illustrations by Jane Cardinal further enhance the text, and include maps and timelines".