Anthony P. Mauro Sr.
Published: 2003-07-02
Total Pages: 183
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The Two River Times says "... The book ́s vibrant descriptions of his hunting excursions express a true excitement and passion for the sport." Tracker Outdoors calls it "... a wonderfully written and inspiring book about a family on safari in South Africa... This finely crafted writing will surely inspire families, hunters and nature lovers to explore the African bush." African Hunter magazine proclaims " ...this is a good story... a story worth reading. A First World family ́s initiation into the African bush, and their appreciation of not only the wildlife, but the (country ́s) unique culture." “Take Me On Safari: A Family Affair” is a compelling and one-of-a-kind chronicle of a husband, wife, their teenage son, young daughter, and “grandmom” on safari in rural South Africa. This is the unforgettable memoir of the Mauro family, swept from their daily routines in suburbia U.S.A. and dropped into the center of adventure, drama and suspense in a remote corner of the Dark Continent. The experience strengthened family bonds, exposed them to the wonders of an ancient land and laid witness the timeless rituals of wildlife. This uniquely written account also includes the unedited thoughts of family members as taken from their diaries. The book is more than an sequential accounting of a family’s journeys in the Northern Province of South Africa. It is living testimony that a safari can be a catalyst that strengthens family bonds and supports wholesome values. According to the author “a safari is something much less than an arena for machismo but rather a voyage for the soul”. He continues, “... because of a need to share this truth I just thought writing a book was the best way to get the message out”. Those that have enlisted the event know that a safari brings modern man within proximity to reasonably glimpse the life of primitive man. It is a way to transport oneself as far as possible from the information driven and over-regulated new age in which we live to the stark, uninhibited and impulsive ways of ever-present wildlife. It can move us from a reality defined by the pillars of logic to a place where instinct governs survival and has done so since the dawn of time. The book gives numerous examples of the safari testing the mettle of one’s character. It lays bare thoughts and emotions ranging from fatigue, boredom, disappointment, fear and sadness to understanding, euphoria, pride, awe, excitement and surprise – all of which were called upon randomly and at a moments notice. Also highlighted is the family’s respect, appreciation and concern for wildlife and their desire for it to be available for future generations. The book demonstrates that a safari is more than an education about the wilderness. As described by Mr. Mauro, “In a way a safari is a religious experience and it can be as simple as living a humble life of faith or as complex to comprehend as all that is holy”. He continues, “It would give me great pleasure if my modest attempt at writing would inspire families, hunters, and observers to visit Africa and to take an interest in its future. In my opinion the continent is an archaeological testimony to the ways of time immemorial and an important display of the intricate patterns and interdependencies of our world’s ecology”. Although it is not a “how to” book “Take Me on Safari” can be a resource for anyone looking to take his or her family on safari – or even go it alone for that matter.