Book One of the Rani Adventures begins with Ron Snell's birth as the eldest child of missionary parents living in the rainforests of Peru. Colorfully depicting what it was like growing up in such surroundings, Snell has captured a wide-ranging audience ranging from homeschool children to senior citizens. "I wouldn't trade my childhood for any other," Snell writes. "Conceived in the Amazon rainforest, I learned to walk and talk among the Machiguenga Indians who, to this day, call me "Rani". "The 'Machis' were my first babysitters and friends. From them I learned to tie a house together, eat monkeys and macaws, and make dugout canoes. They laughed at my log rides down rampaging rivers and caught exotic pets for me. Life was one great adventure after another. After all, what could be more fun than perching in thorn trees at night to escape a herd of stampeding pigs? "The Machiguengas adopted me and my family into theirs. As they touched our lives we discovered what it would cost us to touch theirs. "I hope this first book of the Rani Adventures will bring you laugher, tears and a new perspective on the old cliche: 'It's a jungle out there ' " The second edition (5 1/2 inches by 8 1/2 inches) is larger than the first edition (4 1/4 inches by 7 inches.
As a father of MKs (missionary kids) I raised my children in a setting which was more similar to than different from the Peruvian jungle where Ron Snell grew up. We are back in the United States now, and are having a blast reading It's A Jungle Out There! as a family. The stories may seem outlandish to someone who never lived in a tribal setting, but we can believe it all! Snell's humour is irresistable, his descriptions vivid enough to leave lasting impressions, and his love of life contagious. All of that makes the book valuable, but woven through the stories are important lessons about life too. I recommend this book highly. It surely would be an important addition to any child's bookshelf (if the child could keep it away from his/her parents!).
The Truth About an MK's life
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 21 years ago
This is a great book. Many people would think that it could not possibly be all true, but it is. I am also a missionary kid (MK) and although I never lived in the jungle, I lived through some of these same adventures. The last chapter is especially true (particuarlly for MKs from the '80s). Parts of it were so true that it was hard to read. But it was a great childhood. Ron Snell speaks out for all of us MKs!
It's a Jungle out there
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 22 years ago
It's a jungle out there by Chris barberThis is a great story.It's exotic, it's funny,and the pictures help you imagine almost exactly what it was like then.The book virtually explains what it's like to be a kid with missionary parents growing up in the jungles of Peru .You also learn about South American tribes such as the Michiguengas.All written with a sense of humor.One of my favorite parts was,when he observed that "When they are laughing you know you're in trouble."I highly suggest this book to anyone who likes to laugh and learn about other cultures.
A surprisingly great read
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 23 years ago
I bought this book for my 12-year-old daughter, but she raved so much about it that I read it myself. This book is fast-paced, funny, and yet very insightful. While it looks like a children's book at first, any adult will enjoy it too.
Get Lost In the Jungle
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 24 years ago
"It's a Jungle Out There!" by Ron Snell is a captivating book which tells of Ron Snell's childhood years in the Peruvian jungle. Growing up with the Machiguenga Indians provides the perfect setting for hilarious adventures and mishaps. A great pleasure read or a read-aloud. Adults and kids will enjoy this one. Follow Ron as he loses his heart to the jungle and when you've finished your heart will remain in the jungle too.
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