Tough-O-Meter

We've got your back. With the Tough-O-Meter, you'll know whether to bring extra layers or Swiss army knives as you summit the literary mountain. (10 = Toughest)

(3) Base Camp

The prose of Airborn is easy to read, but there are lengthy descriptions that contain a fair amount of boating vocabulary. If you're a salty dog, then plow on full steam ahead—but if not, maybe brush up on the difference between port and starboard. Click here for the equivalent of a pocket dictionary of maritime vocab.

You can thank us later.