reptilereads discussion

Mean and Lowly Things Snakes, Science, and Survival in the Congo

I just completed this book, and I have to say I really enjoyed it. In this book, Kate Jackson, a grad student at the University of Toronto makes two trips to the country of Congo in central-western Africa to research the native herpetofauna that is largely unknown to many biologists. She gives humorous, and often frustrating, accounts her experiences on the other side of the planet where she has virtually no knowledge of the language or cultural customs there. She meets many characters in the Congo, several of whom she befriends, and describes her interactions with the wide range of personalities. In my opinion, the narrative given of the people encountered and the variety of herpetofauna species found, some unfamiliar to the author, as well as some of the close calls makes for a very interesting read. I thought it was very well-written and give it the full five stars. It's a must-read for those with a strong interest in reptiles/amphibians.

thanks for the review. i will definitely check it out.