"A gem . . . this book will hold the attention of any curious birder. It should be required reading for all nature enthusiasts bound for Australia."—Birder's World"Fascinating natural history accounts of some of Australia's wildlife, illustrated with fine pen-and-ink drawings. Most Americans are unaware of the rich and unique diversity of Australian wildlife. This book helps to fill that information gap in a delightful way."—Wildlife Book Review"The surprising thing is that this book should prove to be so entertaining to the nonspecialist. One reason for this is that Alcock, nicely self-ironic and blessed with a contagious sense of humor, wears his scholarship so lightly. . . . [A] lively, unpretentious, thoroughly readable little book."—Washington Post "Not only are the animals exotic, their behavior sets them apart, too. . . . Those who admire the works of Stephen Jay Gould will want to read this one."—Publishers Weekly