What are the motifs in Birds, Beasts, and Relatives by Gerald Durrell?

The book is a typical coming of age story in some ways, though it should be noted that Gerald's journey does not truly begin or end within this story. That said, it should be noted that the story contains some typical coming-of-age scenes. One of those can be seen when Gerald is invited to visit the Countess Mavrodaki. As he is preparing to go, he realizes the need to look his best and to be on his best behavior. This is a very advanced train of thought for a boy of Gerald's age and shows a budding maturity.