"This book, yet another in the superb 'Lives of' series, provides a complete and comprehensive overview of snakes and their world, and will almost certainly go a long way in convincing even the most diehard skeptic that snakes too have merit. . . . The illustrations are superb."---David Gascoigne, Travels with Birds "Mattison's book weaves a story of intrigue and respect. . . . A must read for professionals and curious naturalists alike."---Howard O. Clark, Jr., Sonoran Herpetologist