Paul Theroux left Victoria Station in April thinking that taking eight trains across Europe, Eastern Europe, the USSR and Mongolia would be the easy way to get to the Chinese border. The reality, of course, was very different. In fact, Theroux experienced a decidedly odd and unexpected trip to China that set the challenging tone for his journey.

Tells of the author's journey down the length of North and South America. Beginning on Boston's subway, this work depicts a voyage from ice-bound Massachusetts to the arid plateau of Argentina's most southerly tip, via pretty Central American towns and the ancient Incan city of Macchu Pichu.

Gives an account of the author's journey by rail through Asia. This work describes the many places, cultures, sights and sounds he experienced and the fascinating people he met. It also shows how he is drawn into conversation with fellow passengers, from Molesworth, while avoiding the forceful approaches of pimps and drug dealers.

Rhyming text introduces a variety of trains as they leave a station, rush along the tracks, and arrive at the platform where travelers are waiting.