I thought it was OK.I thought there would be some interesting stories on maneaters but there wasn`t.The snake part is not interesting at all.So is the part about him hunting some rare pig or antelope on his retirement.It is not really a hunters book,IMO.He was more interested in collecting rare species and is describing the functions of his job in the conservation department throughout the book.

It is a story written in the manner of the times he lived. I thought it was an interesting insight into his life in Africa , the places he went and way he did things.

He certainly isnt the most spirited writer of the times , not in the league of John Taylor but a good read none the less.

The snakes didnt do it for me either .....

Ionides was the 1st warden of the immense Tanganyika Game Preserve, no small responsiblity. If you are more interested in reading about bloodsport in the same reserve, read Terry Irwin's Memiors of an African Hunter. Terry was one of Ionides' game rangers who became a PH and whose clients regularly took 100+ pounders.

Jim Corbett`s are my favorite books.They have a little of everything thrown in-hunting,terror,nature,culture,rifles and more.A book is supposed to be exciting,IMO.

quote:

Originally posted:
Jim Corbett`s are my favorite books.They have a little of everything thrown in-hunting,terror,nature,culture,rifles and more.A book is supposed to be exciting,IMO.

Depends on why one is reading the book. If he is after adventure, yes that is true. If he wants to learn, not necessarily so.