Why are some carpets magic? What is a wish-tree? And where can the fountain of eternal life be found?

The answers to these and many other intriguing questions can be found in Sally Pomme Clayton's enchanted storytelling journey through Central Asia.

On her travels in the region, Sally has accumulated a wealth of folklore and knowledge of nomadic cultures.

The 12 exotic retellings of stories related to the author in storytelling tents are linked by a mix of memories spiced with homespun wisdom, as she retraces her steps through Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tadjikistan and Afghanistan.

Sophie Herxheimer's brilliantly-patterned artwork, together with a glossary and brief notes, combine to reveal the richness of these little-known, faraway lands of Central Asia.