A book of essays that leaves you wanting more. These essays are concerned with history and exploration, particularly early Spanish incursions into the New World, but with side trips to Antarctica and the Northwest Passage. Connell's medieval interests - alchemy, the crusades, and Prester John - are also covered, as well as examinations of ancient civilization such as the Etruscans and the mythical Atlantis. All of these pieces are written in an informal, almost conversational tone (Connell likes to use "listen" when making a point) and wry humor. The adventure and vanity of human longing suffuse these pages.