I ordered this book along with another book, "Kingsnakes and Milksnakes" by Bartlett. Of the two, I think this one is better for first time snake owners as it is more thorough with what a owner needs before getting a snake. The pictures are very detailed and nice and would help a first time owner pick a particular breed of kingsnake. The background information is a bit dated, which makes sense as what is needed to raise snakes hasn't changed in years, but the actual information you'll need is very spot on. I would prefer some more pictures and information on possible terrarium set-ups as I think the book is geared more towards breeders who want efficiency rather then elegance, rather then people who just want one snake as a pet.
Pros:
1. Great pictures
2. Enough information to get 1st snake owner started
3. Lots of breeding information
4. Good description of snakes
Cons:
1. Some info is a bit dated
2. Geared more towards breeders
Conclusion:
For a 1st timer this is better then the Bartlett book but I suggest buying a few snake books to get all the information you'll need.
