JUNGLE WIFE

There is bound to be a comparison to Osa Johnson's books for this story of a woman's life in the Matto Grosso but whereas Mrs. Johnson strayed off into coyness and seemed to add a pretty pretty note to her stories, Mrs. Siemel manages an infectious gaiety, and the ability to make fun of herself and her adventures. Married five months, she goes to find domesticity despite the jungle, her husband's career as a professional hunter, and a world little known to her. Her trials and comic interludes make a story of more than usual interest -- for living with the Indians, Rupert the boa constrictor, vaqueiros, piranhas, peccaries, among other things, and visiting hunters of all types, added more spice than anyone would necessarily need. Then add two babies, one born in a hospital after a hazardous trip down river, the other on their houseboat, and the picture becomes even more complicated. The understanding, amused instruction and quiet tolerance of her husband is a pleasant note, and description of life in the jungle is full of vitality and information. This for the market of popular autobiography.