Exploration by Sea : The Silk and Spice Routes

The Spice Routes stretched for over 9,000 miles around Asia. They led from China's seas across the vast expanse of the Indian Ocean, up the Red Sea or the Persian Gulf, and overland to the Mediterranean. The brave sailors faced violent storms, treacherous reefs, and the possibility of pirate attacks, as well as long absences from their homes and families. But from before records began, people have been tempted to travel these routes. They looked for trade or treasure, or just to satisfy their curiosity. This book tells of the adventures these travelers had, what they found, and the contacts they made, exploring the Spice Routes. Book jacket.