Frank Buck (1) (1884–1950)

A very interesting read by a man who made his living collecting animals for zoos. He was one of those larger-than-life characters, who had married young, won big money in a poker games, traveled to Brazil, found people wanted to buy those animals he collected there, AND managed to bring the animals back alive. Most animal collectors of that time didn't bring them back alive!

In 1929 he lost his money, became director of the San Diego Zoo (for all of three months), and went back to collecting show more animals. In 1932 he joined up with Edward Anthony and co-wrote this book, Bring 'em back alive. This was a best seller, and established him as an animal expert. Eventually he worked for Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus, and became a star in movies as well.

An interesting book looking into the practices that went on in those days. show less

I remember reading this in about 6th grade, and I loved it then. Unfortunately, this one has aged faster than I have! The prose sounds like the narrator on those old Pathé Newsreels that came with the movies in the 30s and 40s. Back then, I read all I could about animals, especially Africa, India, the Jungles of Asia, and Australia. Somehow, this one has lost its luster. Three stars – just for nostalgia.
--Jim, 12/11/07

121. Bring 'Em Back Alive, by Frank Buck with Edward Anthony (read 1943) I read this as my freshman year in high school was coming to a close. I felt the account was of much interest.