This autobiographical account of Dr. Donald Taylor Atkinson tells "the story of the life of a world-renowned doctor who overcame tremendous financial obstacles in order to gain an education" (vii). The author chronicles his family's history, his upbringing in Canada, as well as his journey towards becoming a surgeon in Texas.

This book serves as a "treatise on insect and animal life" (p. 4) in and around San Antonio, Texas. It discusses the life patterns and behavior of Texas insects, fish, reptiles and other animals, as well as the hunting practices of the time, all in great detail and with accompanying photographs.