"From the epics of Homer to the mytho-poetics of modern adventure, one motif stands tall and unwavering - the Hero's Journey - a reminder that within each of us lies the power to transcend our limitations and shape our own destiny. It is not the size or scope of the quest that matters but the courage and conviction with which we embark upon it. This is why Quests, the new book by Paul Spencer Sochaczewski, is so vital, important, and inspirational."

- Richard Bangs, author of The Art of Living Dangerously: True Stories from a Life on the Edge, co-founder of Sobek Expeditions, named by Explorersweb as one of the "100 Great Explorers of the Last 100 Years"

"Quests is personal travel writing of the highest quality - a model of journalistic skill. He pounces on often-obscure themes and concepts that surprise, challenge, and delight us. He reveals rarely imagined insights and sees the world through a startlingly refreshing and insightful prism. He joins a fraternity of skilled chroniclers and explorers, some from the past, like Joseph Conrad, and other more contemporary writers, including William Dalrymple and Paul Theroux."

- James Clad, author of Behind the Myth: Business, Money, and Power in Southeast Asia; co-author of After the Crusade: American Foreign Policy for the Post-Superpower Age; former staff correspondent for Far Eastern Economic Review; former US deputy assistant secretary of defense for Asia

"Full of 'good heart' journalism and surprising insights. There is much to be learned from these finely wrought personal tales of quests in search of ... well, just about everything that is mysterious, thought-provoking, exotic, and sometimes just plain bonkers. This book is a blueprint for other would-be idea explorers who want to finally (it's never too late) chase the end of the rainbow."

- David Hallmark, fellow, Linnean Society and Royal Geographical Society, co-author of Alfred Russel Wallace: On the Origins of a Theory

"Cosmically curious, Paul Spencer Sochaczewski is always a surprising guide into strange encounters and lingering mysteries. If you are interested in stories about the gods, poking into family history, adventuring across the globe or around your living room, you will want to read this book."

- Thomas Bass, author of The Eudaemonic Pie, The Spy Who Loved Us, and Return to Fukushima

"Paul Spencer Sochaczewski is a remarkable traveler, exploring exotic places and discovering memorable, unheralded people. In this latest recounting of his fascinating physical and mental journeys, he combines his insights of worldly wisdom with sardonic humor about life's absurdities. A most enjoyable and challenging book; a wonderful voyage with a very special guide."

- Daniel Warner, author of An Ethic of Responsibility in International Relations

"Paul Spencer Sochaczewski never travels in straight lines. He goes where his imagination and curiosity lead him, which is to places, people, books, and stories that fill him with wonder. He writes with grace and purpose. The winners are his readers, who in a book such as this one can grasp his fine mind and endless energy to reinterpret the known world."

- Matthew Stevenson, contributing editor for Harper's Magazine, author of Biking with Bismarck and Donald Trump's Circus Maximus and Joe Biden's Excellent Adventure