It's pre-1975, and Paul Theroux has packed his bags to traverse the world by train. He sets off on an amazing journey by train, beginning in London, stopping by Istanbul and the Middle East, crossing over to Afghanistan and Pakistan and ending in India. And from there to Ceylon (now Sri Lanka). I never knew you could catch a train from Madran to Colombo. He continues on to Burma and through Indochina, Malaysia, Singapore and then through east Asia, making a final loop right across the Siberian tundra to Russia, and then back again to Europe.
And he does it all by train. He flew a couple of times where trains weren't an option, but I won't penalize him for that.
Theroux writes with an ease and candor that is both magnetic and surprising without being too arrogant or assuming about the people he meets. His words are down-to-earth, witty, infectious and flows easily.
He's inspired me to be more observant about my surrounding environment in general. A great read. Recommended for all who like to travel and go places.