On the Trail of Genghis Khan

October 15, 2013

Never having ridden a horse did not discourage young Australian adventurer and filmmaker Cope from realizing his dream: being the first person in 700 years to repeat successfully Genghis Khan's remarkable journey. The trip took three years to complete and encompassed parts of Mongolia, Kazakhstan, Russia, Crimea, Ukraine, and Hungary. Detailed maps that include notes on Cope's activities give readers a sense of his ongoing challenge. He dealt with horse thieves, wolves, mountains, steppes, deserts, and temperatures ranging from -50 to +50 degrees Celsius. Sadly, Cope abandoned his trip when his father was killed in an automobile accident. The author wanted to learn about Mongolia's history, culture, and relationship with the environment. Not only did he succeed but he produced a documentary to share his knowledge. The epilog serves to update readers on the sometimes moving lives and situations of the people Cope met on the trail, including 160 families who welcomed him. VERDICT Adventure buffs will want to get in the saddle and visit an area that might be less welcoming in the future.--Susan G. Baird, formerly with Oak Lawn P.L., IL

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