My Family and Other Animals

Title: My Family and Other Animals

Author: Gerald Durrell

Summary: When the Durrell family decides to relocate to the Greek island of Corfu, they each have a decidedly different agenda. Oldest brother Leslie is off in search of his writing muse, brother Larry just wants to shoot guns, sister Margo is long suffering in love and Gerald cannot wait to explore. Told from the recollections of a ten year old this delightful tale is populated by these family members, headed by the benignly forgetful mother and faithful dog Roger, along with a series of characters from the island. Adding to this mix are animals collected by young Gerry, the narrator. Consumed with a love for all nature he adds an owl, water snakes, puppies, seagull, various insects, and the infamous mage pies to the mix. I cut my reading teeth on the Cheaper By the Dozen books and I think this measures up. After reading a description of the mating ritual of tortoises, as observed by a ten year old, I cannot look at one of the beast without laughing. This book is not only funny but suffused with a genuine affection for the people who inhabit it.

Recommendation: Definite recommendation. This is a warm, funny book and a great one to read again and again.

Hearts: 5