A Carpet Ride to Khiva

Enjoyable account of the seven years the author spent in the remote desert oasis of Khiva, Uzbekistan. -- Bookseller
This travelogue enriches our understanding of a little-known world, and as Christopher is taken into an Uzbeki family there are some nice touches as West meets East - like when he is hailed a mystic for predicting Bobby Ewing's return from the grave as Uzbekis get their first taste of Dallas. -- News of the World
Unsparing in his censure of Uzbekistan's repressive government, the author nevertheless paints a sympathetic and often humorous portrait of Khiva's residents.... More than just a tableau of Khiva, the book also paints a picture of a foreigner's integration into the community. -- Wanderlust
...serves as a primer on the mysteries of sericulture, and on the endless ramifications of the natural-dyer's craft. His pursuit of powdered madder root takes him deep into Afghanistan, whence he emerges after close shaves. -- Independent
Alexander is an excellent guide through the chaos of local life, and his writing is thick with his adventures in this walled city, drawing a vivid portrait of the domestic lives of his Uzbek hosts with great affection and humour, while also casting his eye over the history of trade on the Silk Road. -- Telegraph
The fact the author lived and worked among Khiva's inhabitants for so long distinguishes "A Carpet Ride to Khiva" from many travel books, as we glimpse life in a Central Asian "desert oasis" of silk, carpets and extraordinarily colourful natural dyes. -- FT
An extraordinary tale of adventure and enterprise set in the heart of Central Asia, beautifully told, by a most unusual young man. Hopefully it will inspire others to embark on similar ventures. -- Peter Hopkirk (author of The Great Game)
Too many travel writers visit Central Asia in a hurry, bulking out their own misadventures with a slice of the region's colourful history. But the strength of this readable book derives from the author's patience: after seven years in Uzbekistan, Alexander has provided a frank and penetrating portrait of the country, with all its contradictions and absurdities. He writes with clear-eye observation and courage, and never fails to emphasize the ingrained hospitality and random acts of kindness that remind you that, in spite of everything, Central Asia is still an exceptionally alluring place. -- Times Literary Supplement