Across Coveted Lands; or, a Journey from Flushing (Holland) to Calcutta Overland

A restless traveler sets out from a quiet Dutch town, loading his camels with provisions and two mischievous Persian kittens named Kerman and Zeris. The journey snakes through the Russian frontier, bustling bazaars of Persia, and the soaring heights of the Caucasus, each leg described with lively anecdotes and keen observations. Illustrated with dozens of maps, diagrams and sketches, the narrative brings the dusty caravan routes, lively markets, and unexpected customs to vivid life.

Along the way he meets scholars, soldiers, and traders, offering a window into the politics and everyday life of turn‑of‑the‑century Eurasia. From the solemn monasteries on the Dnieper to the bustling tea houses of Tehran, his commentary balances humor with thoughtful reflection, making the distant lands feel immediate and human. Listeners are invited to travel the road alongside him, sharing the sights, sounds, and even the occasional feline mishap that punctuate this remarkable overland odyssey.