Jungle Man: The Autobiography of Major P.J. Pretorius is a riveting memoir that captures the daring exploits of one of South Africa’s most colourful adventurers and big-game hunters. From his boyhood on a remote farm to his fearless encounters with Africa’s most dangerous wildlife, Pretorius recounts a life lived on the very edge of civilisation. His tales of tracking lions, facing down crocodiles, and surviving the perils of the untamed African bush make for thrilling, often hair-raising reading.
More than just an adventure story, Jungle Man also offers rare insights into the complex history and cultures of southern Africa in the early to mid-20th century. Pretorius details his experiences as a soldier in World War II and the Korean War, as well as his later work as a game ranger and conservationist, navigating the tensions between hunting and protecting Africa’s natural heritage. His interactions with indigenous communities, including the Maasai and San, add valuable perspective to a fast-disappearing way of life.
A must-read for enthusiasts of African history, adventure memoirs, and true-life tales of survival, Jungle Man is a classic account of courage, grit, and deep respect for the untamed wilderness.
