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Excellent book. Over all, the book is composed and organized very well with a sense that it is chronologically organized which further lends to the easy reading within the book. I only wish that Peter Allison had another book of this nature as once I reached the end I wished that I had only been halfway. While this book is an easy read, it is very excellent. Highly recommend, even as a gift. In addition it is quite humorous. The fact that it is easy to read through lends to the intent of the book. I thoroughly enjoyed the entire book, even through the darker and sad parts.
This is a very entertaining memoir, filled with vivid and exciting tales of "don't run" encounters with lions and elephants and buffalo; but it's at its light-hearted best in describing the camaraderie and off-duty antics of the author and his fellow safari guides, and their comic interactions with often eccentric and/or clueless tourists. As a devotee of African wildlife and the safari experience, I often get books on the subject from family and friends; so I was not surprised when "Whatever You Do, Don't Run" was presented to me as a gift. His chapter on "Bird Nerds" is worth the price of the book.There's a reason why this is a perennial best-seller in its niche.Don Shay, author of Endangered Liaisons Many episodes recounted in the book are laugh-out-loud funny, as Allison -- who could do killer stand-up between safari gigs -- pokes unrelenting fun at his colleagues, his clients and himself. I was surprised, however, to discover that it was written by Peter Allison, who guided my wife and me during a memorable 1997 visit to Mombo Camp in the Okavango Delta of Botswana. In fact, the cover photo of my own book, "Endangered Liaisons," was captured while with Peter on that trip.As it turns out, Peter Allison's skills as a safari guide are all but equaled by his skills as a writer.
Stories of unpredictable animals and not so charming clients fill this book as well as tales about the author who has an endearing way of poking fun at himself.Nothing thought provoking or "deep" about it, just pure enjoyment. I found this book very enjoyable and surprisingly readable. No, he's not Bill Bryson, but except for A Walk in the Woods I found this book more entertaining than most of Brysons' other books.
Loved it. If you want a window into the life of a Safari Guide, mixed with humour, good story telling and a wonderful insight into African wildlife - read this book. I have just read it in one sitting.
Afterwards, it just reminded me of a wonderful experience. The author is funny, funny, funny and manages to give an intriguing and realistic glimpse into the life of a guide. Yes, I did laugh out loud.I should have read it before my trip to the Okavango. Nevertheless, you don't have to have the experience to enjoy it. I'm mailing it to all my South African companions. I read botanical, animal books, but none captures the experience like this one. However, since you tend to find amusing what you relate to, I would have missed much.
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