Identifying the Climax

Is there a sure way of identifying climax with pinpoint accuracy. I am struggling with this one and now I am getting frustrated. I have read a good deal of literature and can interpret them and uncover the hidden meanings but these elements of plots: crisis and climax remain elusive for me.

PS. And one more thing if someone could suggest a book where these things are explained in great detail. I have read the books on literary terms but they are of little help.