Atlas of Improbable Places: A Journey to the World's Most Unusual Corners

The Atlas of Improbable Places is a delightful compendium of the strangest places on the planet, featuring the modern world from surprising new vantage points. It explores the secret Soviet city of Zheleznogorsk, the church tower of San Juan Parangaricutiro, the underground realms of Beijing and Berlin, and the floating worlds of Palmerston and the Island of Dolls.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 06 July 2021
Publisher: Aurum Press

Atlas of Improbable Places is a remarkable work that possesses a rare and enchanting quality, akin to stepping through a wardrobe into a world of extraordinary wonders. It serves as a delightful compendium, presenting a captivating collection of the most peculiar and enigmatic locations on our planet.

The Daily Telegraph has recognized Atlas of Improbable Places as the recipient of the prestigious Edward Stanford Travel Illustrated Book of the Year Award in 2020. In this captivating journey, author Travis Elborough embarks on a quest to uncover the obscure and bizarre, the beautiful and arcane. His unique atlas offers a fresh perspective on the modern world, revealing hidden treasures and unexpected wonders.

Within the pages of Atlas of Improbable Places, readers are invited to explore the enigmatic Soviet city of Zheleznogorsk, a hidden gem that stands as the sole survivor of a town engulfed by lava. They can marvel at the remarkable church tower of San Juan Parangaricutiro, standing tall as a testament to resilience, perched atop a town that was once submerged by volcanic ash. The book also delves into the underground realms of Beijing and Berlin, once dug for refuge and espionage, and the floating worlds of remote Palmerston and the macabre Island of Dolls.

The truths and myths behind these hidden lairs, forgotten cities, and improbable wonders are as diverse as the destinations themselves. These curious places are not merely extraordinary sights; they serve as profound reflections on our relationship with the world around us. Travis Elborough, an acclaimed author and social commentator, emerges as a masterful travel guide, leading us to the most unusual corners of our planet.

Reviewers have praised Atlas of Improbable Places for its engrossing nature, traversing the heights and depths, the beauty and terror, of our world. The Observer describes it as "understatedly expressive," while the New York Times praises its "deeply researched" content, deeming it "really worth your time." GQ also commends the book, highlighting its "engaging" and "thought-provoking" nature.

In conclusion, Atlas of Improbable Places is a remarkable work that transports readers to a realm of extraordinary discovery. With its captivating content, insightful commentary, and stunning visuals, it offers a unique and enriching experience, inviting us to explore the world in ways we never thought possible. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or a curious explorer, this atlas is a must-have companion on your journey of discovery.

Weight: 140g
Dimension: 198 x 128 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780711264014