The intrepid Colin Thubron recounts his travels to Samarkand, Bukhara and throughout Central Asia in the early 1990s, in the wake of the break-up of the Soviet Union. A fine writer, intrepid traveler and insightful observer, he's an outstanding guide to the history, people and culture of this complex corner of the world, one that resonates with history and politics. This is but one of a trio of books on Russia, which also include "In Siberia" and "Where Nights are Longest."  (CAS07, $14.95)

The Ancient Silk Road
Central Asia & the Silk Road