THE GIANT SNAKES

While the author states in his foreword that ""although written from a strictly scientific point of view, this natural history is addressed primarily to the general reader"", it must be recognized that the reader needs to be one with a large enthusiasm for snakes, especially for the six largest living snakes with which the book deals extensively. They are described in detail, differentiated biologically and behaviorally, and there is a substantial amount of information on their eating, sleeping and mating habits. The author writes with real affection for his subject, and one of the most charming parts of the book is devoted to Sylvia (to whom the book is also dedicated), an Indian python pet whose domestically will surprise many. Snakes are the victims of man's fears and taboos, and many of them are dispelled here. A reliable companion piece to The Reptile World, etc., with a great deal of unexpected and enlightening material.