The grandson of bloodthirsty Mongol leader Genghis Khan, Khubilai Khan was groomed for authority from childhood and garnered the position of Great Khan, establishing his reign as one of the most legendary figures in Chinese history. This book explores Khan’s control over Mongolia, his attempts to invade Japan, his imperialistic foreign policy, his relationship with Marco Polo during Polo’s extraordinary journey to Xanadu, and his overall impact on world history.

The book will be released in time for Xanadu to Dadu—The World of Khubilai Khan, a stunning exhibit of artwork that will be featured at the Metropolitan Museum of Art from September 2010 until January 2011.