Having always been fascinated by the long-term studies of chimpanzees and gorillas, I was delighted to find this memoir of Dr. Galdikas' years studying the orangutans. I knew little about orangutans, and found the descriptions of their behavior and environment compelling. She includes memories of her personal history as well, and I liked how she wove these together. It's also interesting to hear her impressions of such figures as Jane Goodall, Dian Fossey, and Louis Leakey.
One last thing--before I read the book, I heard mentioned several times a shocking description of orangutan behavior towards the end, and I agree it was very difficult to read and to think about, but she contextualizes it in a helpful way.
One last thing--before I read the book, I heard mentioned several times a shocking description of orangutan behavior towards the end, and I agree it was very difficult to read and to think about, but she contextualizes it in a helpful way.
