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primate's memoir

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I read "A Primate's Memoir" (amazon link).

It's about the author's experiences studying baboons in Africa. He also talks about his journeys around Africa both pursuing his studies and just touring.

His written voice is so consistent and so full of personality that you can just hear him telling you the story. This contributes also to the fact that while some outrageous things happen, it's always utterly believable.

Mixed with his recounting of places and happenings are opinions and thoughts about science, baboons, life, people, and particularly the people and circumstances of Africa. I found myself accepting his opinions so readily that it was easy to miss how carefully his observations of fact were kept distinct from his speculations and judgments.

I read this book, then kept it nearby and would open it up and re-read sections. Then I read it again cover to cover. Not too many books make me want to do that. And even now I'm reluctant to loan it to a friend in case I want to read it again soon.



Dated: 01/01/2003