Around the World in Seven Months

"Around the World in Seven Months" by Charles J. Gillis is a late 19th-century account of an ambitious journey across the globe, where the author records his personal encounters with various cultures and environments. The story begins with a comfortable train ride across the United States before the author sets sail on a steamer headed into the Pacific. The author then finds himself in Yokohama, Japan, where he marvels at the beauty of the harbor and makes an effort to understand Japanese culture, including how people get around, what they eat, and how they do things. The narrative shines when he describes his experiences in Japan and India, painting a picture of both amazement and the difficulties that come with immersing oneself in different parts of the world. Through interactions with fellow travelers, like missionaries and a German army captain, the book shows cultural appreciation, and introduces readers to the far-off places he visits.