The author recounts his experiences collecting animals for a zoo in the Cameroons. Gerald Durrell details his expedition to the Cameroons in West Africa to collect a variety of animals for the zoo he was establishing. The narrative follows his often humorous and challenging encounters with local people, the natural environment, and the diverse wildlife he sought to capture. Durrell's objective was to gather specimens for the zoo, facing logistical hurdles and the unpredictable nature of both animals and the regions he traversed.

The book is generally regarded as a charming and engaging account of Durrell's animal-collecting adventures. Readers often praise its witty prose and vivid descriptions of both the animals and the landscapes encountered. The narrative style is typically characterized as lighthearted and informative, making it accessible to a broad audience interested in natural history and travelogues. It is seen as a classic example of Durrell's distinctive voice and his passion for wildlife conservation.