This book is a detailed account of a Venetian merchant's extensive travels throughout Asia during the 13th century. The narrative provides a comprehensive exploration of the diverse cultures, customs, landscapes, wildlife, and wealth of the Eastern world, including the Mongol Empire and China, where the author spent time in the court of Kublai Khan. His descriptions of the grandeur and sophistication of these civilizations challenged European assumptions about the East, and his tales of exotic wonders and adventures continue to captivate readers today.

In this travel narrative, the author embarks on a journey to explore the environmental and cultural landscape of Uzbekistan, with a particular focus on the ecological disaster of the shrinking Aral Sea. Through a blend of historical analysis, personal reflection, and encounters with locals, the narrative delves into the complex tapestry of the region's Soviet past, its present struggles, and the resilience of its people. The book is a poignant examination of the human and environmental costs of political ambition, offering a vivid portrayal of a land marked by beauty and tragedy.