I only have this book on kindle for now but will definitely be buying a hardback as this is one of the books you have to keep. This seemed like the most personal of Levison’s treks since it was his first and the one which he admits sewed the seeds for the ones after.

This man’s fearlessness knows no bounds. He’s no gung-ho kind of guy either but isn’t afraid to get stuck in, climb mountains, rough it for ages in the jungle. He becomes part of the environment and country he’s in and manages to enjoy himself and take his readers along with him along the way.

He apologises at the start of the book as he wrote it so long ago that some of it might sound naive he says, but he decided to leave it as it is as it captures his mindset and outlook at the time. I’m so pleased he did as this breathes authenticity and a certain charm and interest to the book that an older Levison would have seen in a different way. The journey seems so long and unwise at times but he weathers the problems as well as he seizes the opportunities. This is the guy you want on any trek you might go on. He knows, respects and explores like it’s his first time – and that level of involvement is fascinating to watch. Being there however is better and he takes you along the way with him every step of the way – inner thoughts, sights and smells, observations – they are all there. The idea for his first trek – to follow in the footsteps of the Silk Road was ambitious and unique – and he manages to portray it in a fresh and unique way.

A really good travelogue with added energy. Levison Wood is like the modern day Phileas Fogg. Michael Palin has given him the seal of approval and I’m sure Phileas would too – so if those who have gone round the world in 80 Days applaud you – you know you’re doing something right.