Across Asia on a bicycle : the journey of two American students from Constantinople to Peking

Two recent American graduates set out on an extraordinary bicycle odyssey that spans more than fifteen thousand miles, threading their way from the crossroads of Constantinople to the imperial heart of Peking. Their journey unfolds across a patchwork of lands—through the bustling streets of Paris, the sun‑kissed coasts of Italy, the rugged peaks of the Lesser Alps, and the ancient ruins of Greece—before they plunge into the vast steppes and deserts of Persia, Turkestan, and western China. Eschewing guides and interpreters, they pick up fragments of each language they hear, relying on curiosity and persistence to bridge cultural gaps.

Along the way they encounter nomadic caravans, bustling bazaars, and remote villages where hospitality often comes in the form of shared meals or a helping hand for a wayward horse. Their sketches and more than two thousand photographs capture the textures of desert dunes, mountain passes, and everyday life, offering listeners a vivid sense of a world that was, at the time, largely unknown to Western travelers. The first part of their adventure promises a blend of daring exploration and intimate encounters with peoples whose customs and landscapes shape a remarkable travel narrative.