Synopses & Reviews
In 1177, Pope Alexander III wrote a letter to the elusive King of the Indies, otherwise known as Prester John. The person who was selected and set out to deliver this letter into the hand of Prester John was never heard of again. 824 years later, armed with a copy of Pope Alexander's letter, Nick Jubber set out from Venice with the intention of somewhat belatedly completing Master Philip's mission. Over the next four months he would travel by bus, train, tractor, and horse-drawn cart around the Eastern Mediterranean, through the Middle East and North Africa before homing in on Ethiopia and the closely-guarded tomb of a medieval king who legend links with the mythical, mystical figure of Prester John.
Review
“Nicholas Jubbers search for the mythical monarch, Prester John, is quixotic to the point of madness. But his is an inspiring madness, bright with medieval fervor for the obscure, yet softened by skepticism and unflagging humor.” —Independent
Synopsis
The myth of Prester John, legendary priest-king of the Indies, is combined here with a modern-day journey, which starts in Italy, encompasses the Middle East and ends in Ethiopia. It is an entertaining blend of travel adventure, history and cultural and social commentary.