A Gift From the Snake That Bit Him: Adventures of an Australian Reptile Man by Neville Burns
Review by Mike Williams
Neville Burns, of www.nevilleburns.net, is one of Australia's most famous herpetologists.
After years of being prodded by his friends, Neville has finally released his much anticipated memoir detailing his life-long interest in, and the early days of, reptile collecting in Australia.
Combine the weird sense of Australian humour, a complete disregard for his own safety and a genuine love and passion for reptiles, and you end up with this great book.
His early travels up and down the coast of Australia are fascinating as well as his encounters with all sorts of 'crazy' characters, the kinds of people you could only meet in the Antipodes.
One of the genuine good guys in this field who holds no airs or graces, Neville has always been the first to give fellow enthusiasts his sought-after advice and time.
Even if you don't know the difference between a Death Adder and a Taipan, you will still find the book an enjoyable collection of stories about these fascinating animals.
And you might actual learn a thing or two, especially why you should never 'borrow' a young crocodile when owed money!
Of course you have to buy the book to find out what happened next.
The book is available through www.nevilleburns.net.
CFZ Australia's Mike Williams caught up with Neville this week to talk all things herpetological.
