In 1907, French writer Claude Anet and his companions set off on an adventure that was, for its time, as daring as a space mission. Their goal? To drive an automobile from France to the heart of Persia. The book is the day-by-day account of this monumental road trip.

The Story

The journey starts with the thrill of a new machine, but reality hits fast. Roads often don't exist. The car gets stuck in mud, breaks down constantly, and draws crowds of astonished locals who have never seen such a vehicle. They rumble through a Russia simmering with unrest, cross the mighty Caucasus Mountains, and finally enter the landscapes of Persia. It's not just a travel log about places; it's about the people they meet—from curious villagers and helpful mechanics to suspicious officials. The 'plot' is their struggle against distance, geography, and the limits of early 20th-century technology. The destination, the fabled city of Isfahan with its beautiful roses, feels like a mirage they are constantly chasing.

Why You Should Read It

What grabbed me was the sheer immediacy of Anet's writing. You feel the jolts of the car, the dust in your throat, and the exhaustion of a long day's drive. He doesn't romanticize it; he shows the grit and grind. But then, he'll describe a sunset over the Caspian Sea or the intricate tilework of a Persian mosque with such wonder that you remember why they put up with the hardship. It's a double portrait: a look at the last days of old empires through a very modern lens—the automobile. The car itself is like a character, stubborn and fragile, pushing into a world not ready for it.

Final Verdict

Perfect for anyone who loves real-life adventure stories, travel writing, or history that feels alive. If you've ever enjoyed books like Into the Wild or classic travelogues, but want a journey from the very dawn of the automotive age, this is your ticket. It's for the reader who wants to escape into a different time and go on a bumpy, unforgettable ride to a legendary city. Just be glad you're reading about the potholes instead of feeling them!