Another Flannery in the tradition of Attenborough's 'zoo quest' series, except with a little more science and empathy with the indigenous populations. There's a dash over to Fiji and New Caledonia, but most of the action is on the outer islands of New Guinea, collecting bats, rats and assorted mammals for scientific research. Flannery looking back on these adventures from his earlier days reflects that he probably couldn't do it now. Not only are many of the species now extinct, but he doesn't think he couldn't now bring himself to kill so many animals, even in the name of saving them. Highly recommended for anyone with an interest in the region, or in wildlife conservation. It might even be the sort of book that could set a susceptible young person off on a career. ( )