I'm glad I waited

Here's a book that presented itself to me over and over throughout my years yet somehow I never found it the moment to read until now. The narration is superb, the characters funny and warm and its a total escape back to a simpler pre-war idyll. I'm glad I came to it as an audiobook because the characterisation and the measured approach forces one to listen and experience it at the correct pace and to revel in the warm breezes that stir the pages. I have decided to postpone listening to the further books because this one was so complete and satisfying on its own that I don't want to dilute the experience. Most enjoyable like a glass of ouzo on a hot summers day..

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

18 people found this helpful

Wonderful

I've read this book several times... Although when I had it in my hands for the first time I couldn't stand it. I HATE bugs, but any other animal is very appealing to me, so when I confronted it for the second time I didn't stop until I read the whole trilogy. The animal side of the story is wonderfully written and explained, but, in my opinion, the Durrell's adventures are the best, just hilarious.

Besides, Nigel Davenport's work is exquisite, bearing in mind English is not my mother tongue so a little effort has to be taken if you are not to read the book at the same time.

So, as I have said before, I will continue the trilogy, enjoying Corfu under the sun!!!

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

2 people found this helpful

Exquisite!

A wonderful story full of magic, charm and glory told beautifully. I recommend this book to everyone.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

Entertaining book

I have always found Gerald Durrell’s books entertaining and this is no exception. Read beautifully as well by Nigel Havers

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

Revisiting my childhood

One of my favourite books of all time. Written with love. Isn't it a shame we all have to grow up.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

Absolutely sublime

Charming, humorous and delightfully innocent. A young Gerald Durrell experiences all that Corfu has to offer amongst a selection of eccentric family and friends (Theodore is my favourite). Incredibly well read I thoroughly enjoyed my time listening.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

an affectionate romp

I really enjoyed this affectionate recollection of a childhood full of generous (well mostly), freindly excentrics, beautifully narrated by Nigel Davenport. I felt bereft when it was over :(

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

10 people found this helpful

Favourite classic book

I had forgotten how funny and lovely this book is. I'm so pleased to rediscover it with my son. The narrator is excellent.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

Animal Magic at its best!

Spending a few months with the Durrells was a most enjoyable holiday. It seems as if I was transported to Corfu with them as they trekked from villa to villa with animals in tow.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!

Loved it.

I read this book years ago and thought at first that Nigel Davenport's narration was going to be too dry and slow. In fact it was very good ideed. It's funny, informative and I'm full of admiration for the long-suffering Mrs Durrel's calm acceptance of what her children got up to.

You voted on this review!

You reported this review!