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The Last Crocodile Hunter: A Father and Son Legacy
Bob Irwin's extraordinary life as a wildlife pioneer, father to wildlife warrior Steve and founder of Australia Zoo, told in his own words. 'When the world lost Steve, the animals lost the best friend they ever had, and so did I. But he's still here with me and knowing that means that I am able to gain strength from him, and harness the same passion and drive that he and I had together. There are so many people who have been inspired and are still being inspired by Steve Irwin and that makes me feel really, really proud.' - Bob IrwinBob Irwin grew up in the Dandenong Ranges where his passion for wildlife was born. A near-death experience while working as a plumber made Bob realise he needed to follow his dreams, so he and his wife Lyn moved their young family to Queensland where they opened a wildlife park on the Sunshine Coast.The Irwin children grew up in and around the Beerwah Reptile & Wildlife Park, learned about the animals there from their dad and cared for orphaned wildlife at home with their mum. Passion for the environment and all animals became a way of life for them. This unique upbringing had a profound impact on Bob's son Steve, who followed in his father's footsteps and became famous around the world as the Crocodile Hunter, educator and wildlife warrior.Bob nearly didn't survive the sudden death of his adored wife Lyn, and it was Steve who helped him face life again. When the world tragically lost Steve to a freak diving accident, it wasn't just the animals that lost the best friend they ever had. Bob did too. Describing it as moving forward without a map, Bob spent many years burying himself in physical work, as a means to cope with the loss of his son. It was the natural world and the animals within it that helped Bob to keep going, and since then he has continued to fight for his beloved Steve's legacy of protecting the wildlife, environment and planet on which our own survival depends.Entertaining, moving, impassioned and inspiring, The Last Crocodile Hunter shows the heart and soul of a great Australian character, father and wildlife campaigner.
388 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 26, 2016
18 people are currently reading
282 people want to read
About the author
Bob Irwin
8 books4 followersBob Irwin is a celebrated Australian naturalist, animal conservationist, and a pioneering herpetologist who is also famous for his conservation and husbandry work with apex predators and reptiles. He was the original founder of Australia Zoo, which he and his wife opened as the small, family run Beerwah Reptile Park in 1973, with the intention of increasing public knowledge of native wildlife.
Bob and his late son Steve, went on to implement and manage a wide variety of research projects into Australian reptiles in collaboration with various universities and government departments. This work has had a major influence on wildlife management today.
Bob's work, and the Irwin legacy, is recognised for helping to educate millions of people about the importance of nature conservation. Bob is continuing his and Steve's legacy though the Bob Irwin Wildlife & Conservation Foundation, giving a voice to Australian wildlife and educating the next generation of grassroots conservationists through research, advocacy and education.
Bob and his late son Steve, went on to implement and manage a wide variety of research projects into Australian reptiles in collaboration with various universities and government departments. This work has had a major influence on wildlife management today.
Bob's work, and the Irwin legacy, is recognised for helping to educate millions of people about the importance of nature conservation. Bob is continuing his and Steve's legacy though the Bob Irwin Wildlife & Conservation Foundation, giving a voice to Australian wildlife and educating the next generation of grassroots conservationists through research, advocacy and education.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
November 19, 2016
The Dandenong Ranges in Victoria was where Bob Irwin grew up, and his love of the Australian wildlife and surrounding bush was in him from a very young age. As the years passed, Bob became a plumber and worked with his father. But eventually Bob knew he was no longer happy in his job, so after much discussion with his wife Lyn, in late 1972 they headed for Queensland with the children. The Beerwah Reptile and Fauna Park began on just three and a half acres of land; the hard work was done by the family as they slowly built it to where it could be opened to the public. The family survived on the bare minimum as neither Lyn nor Bob had an income, but they had a passionate vision of the future.
Bob and Lyn’s three children, Joy, Steve and Mandy, all shared their parents’ love of wildlife and conservation, but Steve was a sponge, soaking up everything his father taught him and always wanting more. Bob took Steve on his camping trips when they were contracted to remove crocodiles from particular creeks and rivers – Steve loved it. The two of them had a unique relationship; not just father and son, they were best mates as well.
As the Park expanded Australia Zoo was born – Steve’s famous Crocoseum became a world-wide attraction. But all the while, the animals were the top priority – teaching humans about the lives and habitats of the wild animals we live with was Steve and Bob’s ultimate goal. And they made a difference…
The Last Crocodile Hunter is the most comprehensive, interesting and heart wrenching memoir I have ever read. Emotional, profound and deeply moving, Bob Irwin’s words and memories have come to life with the help of Amanda French, who travelled with Bob throughout the outback, visiting old sites he had been to with Steve, chatting and imparting it all around the campfire. A quiet man, never one for the spotlight, son Steve was the complete opposite – they complemented each other well. Now seventy seven years of age, Bob Irwin continues his fight to preserve the legacy left by Steve for the well-being of our planet, the environment but mostly for the animals on it. The Last Crocodile Hunter is a memoir I highly recommend, and one I feel anyone who has ever heard of Steve Irwin should read. I very much enjoyed the book.
With thanks to Allen & Unwin for this copy to read in exchange for my honest review.
Bob and Lyn’s three children, Joy, Steve and Mandy, all shared their parents’ love of wildlife and conservation, but Steve was a sponge, soaking up everything his father taught him and always wanting more. Bob took Steve on his camping trips when they were contracted to remove crocodiles from particular creeks and rivers – Steve loved it. The two of them had a unique relationship; not just father and son, they were best mates as well.
As the Park expanded Australia Zoo was born – Steve’s famous Crocoseum became a world-wide attraction. But all the while, the animals were the top priority – teaching humans about the lives and habitats of the wild animals we live with was Steve and Bob’s ultimate goal. And they made a difference…
The Last Crocodile Hunter is the most comprehensive, interesting and heart wrenching memoir I have ever read. Emotional, profound and deeply moving, Bob Irwin’s words and memories have come to life with the help of Amanda French, who travelled with Bob throughout the outback, visiting old sites he had been to with Steve, chatting and imparting it all around the campfire. A quiet man, never one for the spotlight, son Steve was the complete opposite – they complemented each other well. Now seventy seven years of age, Bob Irwin continues his fight to preserve the legacy left by Steve for the well-being of our planet, the environment but mostly for the animals on it. The Last Crocodile Hunter is a memoir I highly recommend, and one I feel anyone who has ever heard of Steve Irwin should read. I very much enjoyed the book.
With thanks to Allen & Unwin for this copy to read in exchange for my honest review.
June 13, 2021
If Bob Irwin didn’t have such a passion for wildlife conservation, and all things reptiles in particular, then there would have been no Crocodile Hunter. Steve Irwin very much followed in his father’s footsteps. And now Steve’s children, Robert and Bindi, have followed in his footsteps. The Irwin family legacy is very important, as they carry it on, passing down knowledge from generation to generation. But this is Bob’s story, and about his father/son relationship with the late Steve. His tragic passing in 2006, at only 44 years old, of course really affected Bob and made him almost shut himself off from the world. And who could blame him?
In the 1970s, Bob Irwin felt burned out by his job as a plumber in Melbourne. So after a discussion with his wife, Lyn, he decided to move himself and his family to Beewah in Queensland and open the Reptile & Fauna Park there (which is now the expansive Australia Zoo).
They would soon be living inside the park itself, and Lyn would be taking in injured animals as well to take care of. There was often a menagerie of different Australian wildlife in their living room.
On a trip to Leichhardt River, this is where Bob and Steve would first perfect their art of “crocodile catching” together, to help move fresh water crocodiles (“freshies”) safely.
The chapter which covers their adventures in the bush surrounded by crocodiles seemed to be such an amazing father/son bonding experience like no other. These trips taught Steve so many valuable skills that he would use throughout his life and career as the Crocodile Hunter.
The loss of Bob’s wife, Steve’s Mother, Lyn was also a huge shock and a terrible blow to both him and Steve. She was killed in an automotive accident whilst her and Bob were in the process of moving house.
The descriptions of their shared grief brought tears to my eyes.
But, a glimmer of hope for the future for Bob was their pet bird-eating spider Sandra (who was believed to have also been killed in the crash) turning up inside a kettle once some of their belongings had been salvaged from the crash site.
He soon met a woman called Judy, who slowly helped him heal over time and who would become his second wife.
It is inspirational how Bob kept pushing on and carrying on with the wildlife conservation work after how much losing Lyn and then Steve affected him. It shows how dedicated and strong he truly is.
Reading Bob’s life story (co-written by Amanda French) is incredibly interesting, you can feel his insightful knowledge of animals shining out of every page. This is one of the most powerful memoirs which covers the subject of grief and subsequent healing. It really keeps you engaged right until the end, which is what makes this a 5 star read.
This quote by Steve from the Enough Rope 2003 interview made me burst into tears when I first heard it, and it is the introductory quote to this book. It is as follows: ”My Dad! Just the legend of the universe. When I was the tiniest little kid, I’d look up at my Dad and he was just larger than life, this action hero. He was just everything I wanted to be. And all I’ve done in my life is just follow in his footsteps, mimic him and try to be him, and nowadays I just try to make him proud, mate. I love my parents like nothing else, they are just everything to me”. 😭🐊🖤
In the 1970s, Bob Irwin felt burned out by his job as a plumber in Melbourne. So after a discussion with his wife, Lyn, he decided to move himself and his family to Beewah in Queensland and open the Reptile & Fauna Park there (which is now the expansive Australia Zoo).
They would soon be living inside the park itself, and Lyn would be taking in injured animals as well to take care of. There was often a menagerie of different Australian wildlife in their living room.
On a trip to Leichhardt River, this is where Bob and Steve would first perfect their art of “crocodile catching” together, to help move fresh water crocodiles (“freshies”) safely.
The chapter which covers their adventures in the bush surrounded by crocodiles seemed to be such an amazing father/son bonding experience like no other. These trips taught Steve so many valuable skills that he would use throughout his life and career as the Crocodile Hunter.
The loss of Bob’s wife, Steve’s Mother, Lyn was also a huge shock and a terrible blow to both him and Steve. She was killed in an automotive accident whilst her and Bob were in the process of moving house.
The descriptions of their shared grief brought tears to my eyes.
But, a glimmer of hope for the future for Bob was their pet bird-eating spider Sandra (who was believed to have also been killed in the crash) turning up inside a kettle once some of their belongings had been salvaged from the crash site.
He soon met a woman called Judy, who slowly helped him heal over time and who would become his second wife.
It is inspirational how Bob kept pushing on and carrying on with the wildlife conservation work after how much losing Lyn and then Steve affected him. It shows how dedicated and strong he truly is.
Reading Bob’s life story (co-written by Amanda French) is incredibly interesting, you can feel his insightful knowledge of animals shining out of every page. This is one of the most powerful memoirs which covers the subject of grief and subsequent healing. It really keeps you engaged right until the end, which is what makes this a 5 star read.
This quote by Steve from the Enough Rope 2003 interview made me burst into tears when I first heard it, and it is the introductory quote to this book. It is as follows: ”My Dad! Just the legend of the universe. When I was the tiniest little kid, I’d look up at my Dad and he was just larger than life, this action hero. He was just everything I wanted to be. And all I’ve done in my life is just follow in his footsteps, mimic him and try to be him, and nowadays I just try to make him proud, mate. I love my parents like nothing else, they are just everything to me”. 😭🐊🖤
August 6, 2019
This book affected me in such a profound and emotional way, that it will take me a little time to put my thoughts together in order to write a proper review. Review to follow.
October 22, 2022
Quickest I've read a book in a while! So many gripping stories and adventures, a real inspiring and heartfelt book that had me crying more than once. And also reignited my passion for wildlife and the natural world. Highly recommend.
November 17, 2016
Absolutely a must read. Beautifully told story of Bob Irwin and his incredible legacy. Funny, poignant, heartbreaking and uplifting. His story will change your life.
February 15, 2022
"My job, my mission, the reason I’ve been put onto this planet, is to save wildlife. And I thank you for comin’ with me. Yeah, let’s get 'em!" ~Steve Irwin
As a child Steve Irwin was my absolute hero and still is to this day. Even on the worst days when the sadness and isolation I felt from my school bullies crept over me I knew that if I ran to the TV when I got home and turned on Animal Planet Steve would always be there with a big ol' grin and an adventure brewing. I watched the Crocodile Hunter program religiously while taking notes of all of the information Steve relayed about all of the wildlife he encountered in the outback and keeping an ongoing tally of every time he got bit. He is one of the main reasons I always dreamt of and actually pursued a career in veterinary medicine.
This book is the story of the Crocodile Hunter legacy and how it all began. Prior to reading this book I knew diddly-squat about Steve's dad Bob Irwin and the major role he played in inspiring Steve's drive to protect wildlife. 'The Last Crocodile Hunter' is an absolute gem of a book and I recommend it to anyone and everyone whose lives were deeply impacted by the wonderful khaki-clad Crocodile Hunter. Filled with so many adventures and stories of Steve as a little boy and a seemingly fearless young man this book felt like a gift of precious secrets and memories we would have never heard about otherwise.
I shed so many tears reading this book. It felt like losing Steve all over again. I remember on September 4th, 2006 my parents had to sit me down at the dinner table and said that they had something really difficult to talk to me about. They relayed to me that Steve had died as though he was an uncle or a family member that had just passed. He was far more than a person on TV; he was a hero, a friend, and an integral part of educating an entire generation to give a damn about wildlife, most especially to care about the not-so-cuddly-looking apex predators such as the crocodile.
Rest in peace Steve.
You had the biggest heart and boy wasn't it a beauty?!
As a child Steve Irwin was my absolute hero and still is to this day. Even on the worst days when the sadness and isolation I felt from my school bullies crept over me I knew that if I ran to the TV when I got home and turned on Animal Planet Steve would always be there with a big ol' grin and an adventure brewing. I watched the Crocodile Hunter program religiously while taking notes of all of the information Steve relayed about all of the wildlife he encountered in the outback and keeping an ongoing tally of every time he got bit. He is one of the main reasons I always dreamt of and actually pursued a career in veterinary medicine.
This book is the story of the Crocodile Hunter legacy and how it all began. Prior to reading this book I knew diddly-squat about Steve's dad Bob Irwin and the major role he played in inspiring Steve's drive to protect wildlife. 'The Last Crocodile Hunter' is an absolute gem of a book and I recommend it to anyone and everyone whose lives were deeply impacted by the wonderful khaki-clad Crocodile Hunter. Filled with so many adventures and stories of Steve as a little boy and a seemingly fearless young man this book felt like a gift of precious secrets and memories we would have never heard about otherwise.
I shed so many tears reading this book. It felt like losing Steve all over again. I remember on September 4th, 2006 my parents had to sit me down at the dinner table and said that they had something really difficult to talk to me about. They relayed to me that Steve had died as though he was an uncle or a family member that had just passed. He was far more than a person on TV; he was a hero, a friend, and an integral part of educating an entire generation to give a damn about wildlife, most especially to care about the not-so-cuddly-looking apex predators such as the crocodile.
Rest in peace Steve.
You had the biggest heart and boy wasn't it a beauty?!
August 21, 2018
This book really was about their 'Father and Son Legacy'. I didn't read the title properly and thought we would get to know more about Steve's other siblings, but getting back to the title and the build-up to when Bob talked about the death of Steve- it really hit home.
The memoir was well-written, because by the end of it I felt so connected and invested in the bond that Bob and Steve had, but also with the other people in their lives- to Lyn, The Croc Team, Mandy. They felt so real to me.
I cried at the loss Bob felt when Lyn died in an accident; my heart wrenched for the pain and pride that Bob felt for his son after his death, and the fact that so many people were touched by Steve's passion and presence.
This book made me appreciate the leadership and strength in people like Bob and Steve Irwin, who are stubborn to boot, but passionate for what they believe is right.
Bob's words to keep going when life throws the cruellest curveballs, because there is so much in this world to fight for, resonated with me- and I will try to keep that in mind whenever I feel like life is getting me down. He made me feel that I have something to contribute, and that life is all about the legacy we leave behind to making the world a bit better for the next generation.
Thank you Bob Irwin, I hope you still have more treks out in nature left in you.
The memoir was well-written, because by the end of it I felt so connected and invested in the bond that Bob and Steve had, but also with the other people in their lives- to Lyn, The Croc Team, Mandy. They felt so real to me.
I cried at the loss Bob felt when Lyn died in an accident; my heart wrenched for the pain and pride that Bob felt for his son after his death, and the fact that so many people were touched by Steve's passion and presence.
This book made me appreciate the leadership and strength in people like Bob and Steve Irwin, who are stubborn to boot, but passionate for what they believe is right.
Bob's words to keep going when life throws the cruellest curveballs, because there is so much in this world to fight for, resonated with me- and I will try to keep that in mind whenever I feel like life is getting me down. He made me feel that I have something to contribute, and that life is all about the legacy we leave behind to making the world a bit better for the next generation.
Thank you Bob Irwin, I hope you still have more treks out in nature left in you.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 11, 2023
I’ve read other books about Steve Irwin from the perspective of his wife Terri and others who have worked with him. This perspective of an introspective man who holds not only his words, but memories of his son, close to his chest offers a much greater depth into Steve’s death and the impact it had much more than these other stories.
One thing I appreciated was the constant theme of how a man that inspired the one that inspired millions never allowed himself to be more than a father, even if his stories about dropping snakes on government officials’ desks in the middle of a meeting say otherwise.
One thing I appreciated was the constant theme of how a man that inspired the one that inspired millions never allowed himself to be more than a father, even if his stories about dropping snakes on government officials’ desks in the middle of a meeting say otherwise.
December 1, 2022
Bob is a natural storyteller, his travels across Australia and the history behind starting the humble zoo in QLD was so captivating. His passion for wildlife was infectious and a true testament to the success of his zoo, children and fundraising initiatives. His hardship of enduring the loss of Lyn and Steve were devastating and had me crying from his memories. If only there were more Bob’s in the world.
January 11, 2026
Cried profusely in multiple chapters. 10/10 would recommend for Steve Irwin fans! I listened as an audiobook and would also highly recommend.
February 5, 2017
This book was made all the more interesting for me as I had the pleasure in meeting Bob Irwin and Amanda French at the book launch in Peregian Beach, Queensland. On the day Bob's understated character was being tested by the considerable crowd yet he handled it as easily as a huge croc.
The first section of the book, the early years were really enjoyable. I learnt so much about aspects I hadn't considered or wouldn't have contemplated about the origins of the Irwin enterprise. A badminton playing Plumber with a house full of reptiles.
The story really gets kicking with recollections of trips away to Far North Queensland capturing crocs and the associated stories of a young Steve are enthralling, as some of the exploits borderline on insanity.
I found the second half of the book a little slow following the anecdotes and hi-jinx shared in the first half yet as the story moves into Bob's tragedies a new feel takes place.
An enjoyable read in which real world and dangerous exploits become the norm laced amongst family tales and recollections of staff and friends.
The first section of the book, the early years were really enjoyable. I learnt so much about aspects I hadn't considered or wouldn't have contemplated about the origins of the Irwin enterprise. A badminton playing Plumber with a house full of reptiles.
The story really gets kicking with recollections of trips away to Far North Queensland capturing crocs and the associated stories of a young Steve are enthralling, as some of the exploits borderline on insanity.
I found the second half of the book a little slow following the anecdotes and hi-jinx shared in the first half yet as the story moves into Bob's tragedies a new feel takes place.
An enjoyable read in which real world and dangerous exploits become the norm laced amongst family tales and recollections of staff and friends.
March 16, 2018
What a truly epic tome. Not only is it well written, the encounters are real and very down to earth. Bob would not be the easiest man to live with but he has stayed true to his passion in life - wildlife.
The tragedies of losing his wife and then his only son were shared with great clarity, the depths of despair not withheld. But to me the words that have not been shared - the separation from Terri and his grandchildren and the iconic Wildlife Park - have been equally well crafted. The sensitivities within the book are stunning, even humbling. I would read this book again when looking for the kind of inspiration that is needed to change the world. Thanks Bob... well done.
The tragedies of losing his wife and then his only son were shared with great clarity, the depths of despair not withheld. But to me the words that have not been shared - the separation from Terri and his grandchildren and the iconic Wildlife Park - have been equally well crafted. The sensitivities within the book are stunning, even humbling. I would read this book again when looking for the kind of inspiration that is needed to change the world. Thanks Bob... well done.
June 10, 2018
Of all the books I've picked up in order to learn more about Australia, this is by far my favourite. I love stories about wildlife and I love real stories about inspiring people, both of which make for a great read in this book about the Irwin adventures. Can't wait to plan a trip to northern Queensland myself to appreciate (from a safe distance) the grandeur of the crocodiles that they love so much!
January 13, 2017
A deeply passionate and human story
What a privilege to read the story behind the man who became a worldwide phenomena and true friend to every creature from the tiniest spider to the the largest crocodile, and the man who inspired the legend. Thank you Bob for writing your story. We need more people like you in our world.
What a privilege to read the story behind the man who became a worldwide phenomena and true friend to every creature from the tiniest spider to the the largest crocodile, and the man who inspired the legend. Thank you Bob for writing your story. We need more people like you in our world.
July 17, 2017
Bob's honesty and candid approach to his story was very refreshing to listen to as an audiobook. I actually surprisingly enjoyed it more than I could have thought. A great insight into his life among the wilderness.
February 6, 2022
Any fan of Steve Irwin will enjoy Bob Irwin’s “The Last Crocodile Hunter”. Very interesting to learn more about Steve as a child and how he became the man he is. After Steve’s death in the book, Bob shares his struggles he faced and how he continued on to spread the conservation message.
Read
January 22, 2017not bad reading... a book u can put down and pick up later on.
April 4, 2017
I did cry during the epilog, what an inspiring man Bob Irwin is. Great book
August 14, 2017
Bob Irwin: the real McCoy, with a story well worth hearing.
January 21, 2018
Loved it.
Loved the emotional and detail.
Loved the emotional and detail.
August 1, 2023
As somebody who’s been a fan of Steve Irwin as long as I can remember, I periodically seek out of videos for quick injection of his spirit. I saw this suggested on my Audible and it was the quickest I’ve used a credit ever. And it turned out to be one of my favorite reads/listens in a while.
I loved learning about Steve’s origin, his father who really was the source of it all, and all the stories in their incredible journey. The book has such an eclectic array of stories that are inspirational, tragic, make you laugh, and educational.
Steves always been a hero of mine and this only increased my respect, admiration, and love for him. Not only as a warrior for wildlife, for his unparalleled enthusiasm, but with this book now knowing what a great leader he was, how hard working he was, how resilient, and how great of a leader he was. I wanted to discover what the fountainhead of his enthusiasm and passion came from and I got so much more.
Even though Bob seems to be pretty stubborn and there’s drama with him and Steve’s wife and kids it seems, I do have a respect for who he is and how this random guys love for reptiles and a near death experience led him to creating one of the greatest sources of nature conservation ever and such an impactful legacy.
I recommend
I loved learning about Steve’s origin, his father who really was the source of it all, and all the stories in their incredible journey. The book has such an eclectic array of stories that are inspirational, tragic, make you laugh, and educational.
Steves always been a hero of mine and this only increased my respect, admiration, and love for him. Not only as a warrior for wildlife, for his unparalleled enthusiasm, but with this book now knowing what a great leader he was, how hard working he was, how resilient, and how great of a leader he was. I wanted to discover what the fountainhead of his enthusiasm and passion came from and I got so much more.
Even though Bob seems to be pretty stubborn and there’s drama with him and Steve’s wife and kids it seems, I do have a respect for who he is and how this random guys love for reptiles and a near death experience led him to creating one of the greatest sources of nature conservation ever and such an impactful legacy.
I recommend
October 22, 2018
Like many people, I remember where I was when I found out my hero, Steve Irwin had died. I was seven years old, sitting in the car in my aunt's driveway. Mum had the radio on and that's when we heard the news. I burst into tears.
I cried lots when reading this book; in the car, in my room, on the train... I'm so glad Bob published his story, because it was a privilege to read it. While I was aware of much of Steve's life through the cameras, I hadn't put much thought into the beginning of Australia Zoo and how the larger-than-life Irwins became world-renowned legends. For someone who has grown up mostly in the city, I have always had a huge love for the bush and outback, and this is only growing. This book filled me with such inspiration.
I recommend all Australians read this, especially the young ones who will soon be taking the reigns. We need to be so much more considerate of out environment and wildlife, and this is the perfect book to inspire that.
I cried lots when reading this book; in the car, in my room, on the train... I'm so glad Bob published his story, because it was a privilege to read it. While I was aware of much of Steve's life through the cameras, I hadn't put much thought into the beginning of Australia Zoo and how the larger-than-life Irwins became world-renowned legends. For someone who has grown up mostly in the city, I have always had a huge love for the bush and outback, and this is only growing. This book filled me with such inspiration.
I recommend all Australians read this, especially the young ones who will soon be taking the reigns. We need to be so much more considerate of out environment and wildlife, and this is the perfect book to inspire that.
February 27, 2024
A great insight to the life of the original Crocodile Hunter and Wildlife Warrior. Officially an easy and captivating read, reading this book truly made me feel like I was a part of every adventure, the stories were told so well. This book had so many wonderful moments for both Bob and Steve, yet so many sad moments intertwined. It really goes to show that they were truly just ordinary people, experiencing an amazing and heart wrenching rollercoaster life just like many of us regular people. Bob has had an amazing life and has been at the forefront of many evolutions and innovative social and ecological developments, yet I feel terribly sad for him and some of the hand's life has dealt such a kindhearted and pure soul.
I certainly finished this book a lot wiser and with a handful more of great life lessons and a renewed confidence in what could be. I would definitely read this book again and again.
I certainly finished this book a lot wiser and with a handful more of great life lessons and a renewed confidence in what could be. I would definitely read this book again and again.
February 3, 2020
* This is a book to read if you want to feel something; passion for the environment and the animals, a look into the most rue blue Aussie family life, and remembering where you were when you heard about the death of the legendary Steve Irwin.
* Chapter 22 made me stop and cry in my local fruit and veg shop (the death of Lyn), give myself a neck I just from shaking my head incredulously so much (when he still went on catching crocs even though he had a serious injury) and snort tea out of my nose from laughing (an esky full of red bellies while on a cricket trip)
* While its a shame Steve never got to write a book like this when he reached his old age, but Bobs adventures as a young man and then hearing how Steve became the man we al knew of and loved, is just as awe inspiring. Even though he is a tad more camera shy than his son was, I’m glad he wrote down his stories to share.
* Chapter 22 made me stop and cry in my local fruit and veg shop (the death of Lyn), give myself a neck I just from shaking my head incredulously so much (when he still went on catching crocs even though he had a serious injury) and snort tea out of my nose from laughing (an esky full of red bellies while on a cricket trip)
* While its a shame Steve never got to write a book like this when he reached his old age, but Bobs adventures as a young man and then hearing how Steve became the man we al knew of and loved, is just as awe inspiring. Even though he is a tad more camera shy than his son was, I’m glad he wrote down his stories to share.
November 12, 2019
A beautiful story, though not a literary marvel
I picked up both this book and Terri Irwin's version of the story because Steve was one of my childhood heroes. While neither book will win awards for being technically well-written, the stories behind this incredible conservationist make both of these books engrossing and worth the read. Bob's tale (this book) focuses almost exclusively on his relationship with his late son, how he dealt with loss, and how he came out of it all still swinging in the fight for his beloved wildlife. There are some well-put truths buried in this book that made me stop reading and think. Steve and Bob's message will live on, if we just have the courage to carry it.
I picked up both this book and Terri Irwin's version of the story because Steve was one of my childhood heroes. While neither book will win awards for being technically well-written, the stories behind this incredible conservationist make both of these books engrossing and worth the read. Bob's tale (this book) focuses almost exclusively on his relationship with his late son, how he dealt with loss, and how he came out of it all still swinging in the fight for his beloved wildlife. There are some well-put truths buried in this book that made me stop reading and think. Steve and Bob's message will live on, if we just have the courage to carry it.
July 28, 2023
This book was entertaining and inspiring. I have to admit I laughed out loud, gasped in shock, and cried multiple times throughout. Having walked into his story as a person with little to no knowledge about Bob Irwin or his family, I was captivated by the journey he and his family have gone through. I hope for a peaceful reconciliation with Steve's children and their grandfather Bob. I am so thankful that I listened to this story of encouragement and to receive many memorable words of wisdom from a man who has lived a long and incredible life. He's inspired me to be more conscious of my choices and to be aware of the world outside my immediate circle. Thank you for persevering and sharing this story with the world. Readers will be better for hearing it.
December 10, 2025
Thoroughly got sucked into this book. It was excellent to get the "ancient" history on how Steve's parents first developed what would become the Australia Zoo. So much fun to read his stories about Steve as a young child learning all the amazing skills he would have as an adult. Was hoping for some insight into the relationship breakdown between Bob and other members of the zoo (including the family) but utterly respect him for keeping private matters private. The insight this book offered was amazing.
August 26, 2023
A beautifully written and incredibly inspiring tale. Genuine laughter and tears are only a few words away from each other throughout.
This book will break your heart but make you want to get off the sofa and achieve something great
This book will break your heart but make you want to get off the sofa and achieve something great
January 3, 2026
Fascinating and inspiring.
June 12, 2017
Great Book!!!
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