This article explains the story behind the writing
of Chasing the Monk, A Journey in the Footsteps of
Xuanzang. It took Mishi Saran two years to complete, and “…is the kind of book that makes your inner armchair
traveller sick with envy.” The Chinese monk Xuanzang (or Hsuan Tsang) set off on an epic journey to India in the 7th
century to study Buddhist philosophy. Over 1,400 years later Mishi followed in his footsteps, leaving her home in Hong
Kong to travel the Silk Road. The book chronicles her personal journey through India, Pakistan and Afganistan, while
weaving in details from the tales of the ancient monk. Her search for home is a compelling personal history and
thought-provoking travelogue.