My Family and Other Animals (Penguin Classics Clothbound) - Gerald Durrell

My Family and Other Animals by Gerald Durrell is one of the most cherished memoirs of the twentieth century, presented here in an elegant Penguin Classics Clothbound Edition.

In 1935, the eccentric Durrell family flees the grey skies of England for a new life on the Greek island of Corfu. What follows is a glorious portrait of childhood freedom, familial chaos, and an ever-growing menagerie of animals. With warmth, humor, and vivid observation, Durrell introduces readers to his unforgettable family—his endlessly patient mother, vanity-prone Margo, literary Lawrence, gun-enthusiast Leslie, and a household teeming with creatures ranging from owls and tortoises to insects and dogs.

At once a coming-of-age story, a love letter to nature, and a comedy of manners, the book captures the magic of a childhood lived close to the natural world, told through Durrell’s uniquely gentle and mischievous voice.

Main Themes

• Childhood wonder and freedom
• Family life and eccentricity
• Nature, animals, and early naturalism
• Life in Greece and expatriate experience
• Humor, nostalgia, and observation

Why You Should Read This Book by Gerald Durrell

• A timeless classic loved by readers of all ages
• One of the most joyful and accessible nature memoirs ever written
• Perfect balance of humor, warmth, and storytelling
• Beautiful Penguin Clothbound edition ideal for gifts and collectors
• A celebration of curiosity, family, and the natural world

My Family and Other Animals remains a radiant and life-affirming classic that continues to enchant generation after generation. With its irresistible charm, gentle humor, and deep affection for both people and wildlife, Gerald Durrell’s memoir is not just a story of growing up—it is a reminder of how magical the world can be when seen through curious eyes. A must-have classic in a stunning collectible edition.