Paule Henry-Bordeaux's book is her personal account of a journey across the Syrian desert in the 1930s, aiming for the ancient oasis city of Palmyre. This isn't a grand historical epic. It's the day-to-day reality of travel in that era: long, bumpy car rides, the challenge of finding water, the endless stretch of sand, and the small, fleeting encounters with local communities. The "plot" is simple—the road itself is the main character, full of unexpected delays and stark beauty.

Why You Should Read It

What makes this book special is its quiet perspective. Henry-Bordeaux writes with a clear, observant eye. She doesn't romanticize the desert; she shows you its harshness and its strange peace. You feel the isolation and the physical effort of the trip. It's a powerful reminder of how travel used to be—an actual expedition, not a vacation. Her observations about the people and places, made just before major global changes, feel precious and immediate.

Final Verdict

If you love quiet, thoughtful memoirs or have an interest in early 20th-century travel writing, this is a hidden gem. It's perfect for readers who enjoy stories about remote places and resilient people. Don't expect high drama or a fast pace. Instead, settle in for a thoughtful, atmospheric ride across the sands with a fascinating guide.