A collection of five essays that haven’t got into Gerald Durrell’s other books. My favorite piece is The Birthday Party, in which we are again transported back to 1930s’ Corfu to have a good laugh with the Durrells. Larry is a colorful character, wonderfully drawn. He is somewhat misogynistic by today’s standard, but oh well, he knows men. A Question of Promotion is hilarious, although the “benevolent colonist” cliche puts me off a little.

Airy, delightful, of its time, passionate, exotic and relatable.

Half a dozen random anecdotes from Corfu, England and West Africa. Short and very comforting.

I thought this was going to be a continuation of My Family and Other Animals but was disappointed to find that only the first of the five short stories pertains to the family in Corfu. The BBC TV production was a good format for the author's talents - maybe better for the screen than in book form. The story set in Africa will probably upset some readers who could find it racist (which I don't think the author was) and Ursula in the last story is hilarious.

3.5★

These random, "real life" (more on that later) stories from Durrell's life were a real mixed bag for me

A natural born raconteur;

Durrell appeared to be quite at home writing his tales down, but apparently he never loved writing or thought of himself as a writer - it was always a way to raise money. Some of his stories stood the test of time. Others really didn't. 🙄

The Birth of a Title Charming snippet that shows the close bond between GD & his brother [a:Lawrence Durrell|8166|Lawrence Durrell|https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1463722118p2/8166.jpg] and tells how this book got its title. Brought back my own memories of Greece.
The book's dedication;

This book is for my brother Larry who has always encouraged me to write and rejoiced more than anyone else in what success I had.

5★

The Birthday Party Oh my word, I just hated Larry after (& in fact during) this story! I know a fair few arrogant SOBs like this in real life, always thinking they know best, always trampling all over others to get their own way.

Spoiler

The ice box (probably a simpler affair than the one in this picture;

Probably the only thing that made life on Corfu bearable for Mother.

Only the punchline saves this one.. 2★(barely)

A Transport of Terrapins Charming, delightful, what I hoped this whole collection would be like. GD's life long love of the animal kingdom just shines through. The standout story 5★

A Question of Promotion Where GD shows that Larry isn't the only insufferable member of the Durrell family. Long winded, vain & pompous (not to mention paternalistic & sexist), even GD"s rapport with animals can't save this one 1.5★

A Question of DegreesWhile fascinating in a way about the workings of the NHS was just TMI for me! 2.5★

Ursula Where GD doesn't let facts get in the way of a good story! Among others, his sister & mother both said he embroidered or omitted real life events.Lighthearted & funny though. 5★

Maybe I would have had a kinder view of Larry if I had read this first. Warning: may shatter a few Durrell illusions.https://www.dailymail.co.uk/home/event/article-4363736/The-dark-Gerald-Durrell-s-family-saga.html

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