Whatever You Do, Don’t Run! by Peter Allison (5 ★)

Whatever You Do, Don’t Run: True Tales of a Botswana Safari Guide by Peter Allison

I absolutely loved this book! In this collection of essays, Peter Allison tells some hilarious and terrifying stories of being a safari tour guide in Botswana, Africa. This author is what Bill Bryson wants to be but falls so far short of. His humor is good-natured and his concern for animals and the safety of his guests is obvious throughout. Where Bill Bryson wanders around doing nothing and complaining about it, Allison’s daily life is full of adventure and excitement. Even when being run down by buffalo or elephants, strangled by pythons, or stuck in a river full of hippos and crocodiles, Allison is an incredible story teller.

This book manages to be fun and exciting and still full of information about the wild animals Allison deals with on a daily basis. While his love for the animals and passion about conservation are obvious, it never feels preachy or boring. I loved the pacing of the chapters and how easy it was to fly through stories. It was such an enjoyable read I could see picking it up again in the future when I need something lighthearted and engaging. 

I’m so glad I realized there were photos in the back of the book. I was not disappointed to find out that Peter Allison is quite a good looking guy and now I want to find videos of his speaking engagements so I can hear his Australian accent as well. 

I had never considered going on a safari trip but after reading this, I can’t wait to do more research. I’m also happy to have read this before going on any type of safari so that I don’t ask or do any of the ridiculous things these guests do. And after the compelling and exciting way he has of telling stories, I can’t wait to pick up some more books by Peter Allison as well!

Rating: ★★★★★
5/5 Stars