The family of Durrell moves from England to Greece. Gerald, the youngest son, is obsessed with zoology. After the family settles in Greece, Gerald befriends locals. Specifically, he becomes acquainted with Rose-Beetle man, who sells him pets. Gerald’s mother gets him, tutors, to teach him. The first tutor is George, who discovers Gerald’s love for zoology. Mr. Kralefsky is also a tutor, who advises Gerald’s mother to get him formal schooling. Since he was young, Gerald loved nature and its creatures.
Readers get insight into a world of creatures in Greece. Gerald is obsessed with creatures. Even when his mother hires a teacher, Gerald is more concerned with creatures rather than studies. George is forced to integrate zoology in lessons to appease Gerald. Gerald wants to create a comfortable environment for his pets. However, such efforts face challenges because not everybody supports his ideas. Such is practical in today’s world.
Though it is important to preserve the environment for other creatures, some people have resorted to destroying those niches through activities like poaching and hunting. Just like Gerald, humans have the responsibility to care for other animals. Destruction of animal niches is unacceptable. People should love creatures the same way Gerald loves his pets.
