Desmond Morris has traveled the world for over forty years studying the human species. Everywhere he has gone he has noticed that people always have some kind of lucky charm, protective amulet or talisman. The form it takes varies from country to country and culture to culture. In each place the favorite charm is treated very seriously and endowed with helpful, magical properties. Sometimes it is meant to protect its owner from bad luck, sometimes its meant to bring good luck. Always there is a fascinating history or symbolic background to the talisman.

During his travels Morris has collected hundreds of different lucky charms, amulets and talismans. Some are small objects that were worn or carried on the body. Others are slightly larger and are intended to protect their owners by guarding their horses, cars, boats or houses. For millions of people all over the world, the ancient magic of amulets helps relieve unspoken fears. Whether it is a protective amulet, lucky charm or talisman, carrying it brings personal reassurance and comfort. Some even become tangible symbols for an entire culture to share. The rabbit's foot in North America, the lucky horseshoe in England, the shamrock in Ireland, the St. Christopher medal in Belgium and the calico cat figurines of Japan are just a few. The book is divided intonine chapters delving into the fascinating mythology and tradition of animal, mineral, botanical, anatomical, religious and other bodyguards from around the world.