Roundabout to Moscow: An Epicurean Journey

In this vivid travelogue an American explorer sets out on a round‑about journey to Moscow, determined to leave behind the familiar English prejudices that often color portrayals of the Russian Empire. He moves from St. Petersburg to the heart of the steppe, noting the unexpected courtesy of officials, the prevalence of tea, and the modest honesty of street vendors. The narrative paints everyday scenes—bustling markets, solemn churches, and the steady rhythm of Cossack life—while offering candid reflections on the nation’s religion, food, and social customs.

The author's tone mixes gentle humor with keen observation, inviting listeners to taste the flavors of Russian cuisine and hear the clang of distant bells without the usual sensationalism. Through a series of episodic encounters, the journey becomes a window onto a society that is at once serious and hospitable, challenging the stereotypes that have long dominated Western discourse. Ideal for anyone eager to hear a 19th‑century Russia described through the eyes of an inquisitive, open‑minded traveler.