William Dalrymple investigates the historical reality and geographic legacy of Marco Polo's legendary trek by attempting to retrace the explorer's route from Jerusalem to the ruins of Xanadu. As a young graduate, Dalrymple utilizes historical texts and primary source accounts to navigate the modern political and physical landscape of the Middle East and Central Asia. His narrative framework balances the romanticism of historical exploration against the logistical realities of contemporary travel, documenting the cultural shifts along the ancient Silk Road.

This work is regarded as a significant contribution to modern travel literature, noted for its blend of historical scholarship and personal narrative. The text provides a dense, observant account that appeals to readers interested in the intersection of historical exploration and contemporary travelogue.