NOTES FROM THE ROAD VOL. III
This book, the prequel to Vol IV, is a retrospective of Mansfield's journey to Mongolia from London and return.
It takes place in 2012 before Russia invaded Ukraine.
The Russian Federation and Siberia were joyful, the people still happy and not fearful; Central Asia was relatively peaceful, the population approachable and friendly.
But his experience was also coloured by encounters with gangsters, corruption, mechanical failures and the breaking of bones.
Taking all of this in his stride, he was humbled by the help and assistance readily given and ultimately grateful that he survived.
The story is told with rich good humour, the survivalist's ever-present antidote to the vicissitudes of true adventure.
Praise For Volume IV
Spiced by self-deprecating humour and ironic wit, lucid descriptions of the sights, sounds, tastes and smells; an experience close to riding on the journey; war-torn areas, land mines; societies in political turmoil, corruption; seething ethnic conflicts barely attenuated. Yet, Mansfield finds beauty, freedom and fellowship within the chaos.
Jim Cowgill, ADVMoto
I loved it, one of the best written books I've read; humorous, adventurous, informative. Exquisite writing, amazing.
Nathan Millward. The Postie
I learned, laughed, sympathised and was
surprised. It's very easy to give five stars.
Sam Manicom, Under Asian Skies
Just occasionally a book arrives that is different, brave and definitely intriguing; an observational classic, the acerbic wit pin sharp.
Paddy Tyson. Overland Magazine
A refreshing, sometimes unnervingly different approach; a 'why-you-should-do-it' inspirational book.
Colin Overland, Ride Magazine
47,000 words
