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A Primate's Memoir
Love, Death and Baboons
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Check link for latest rating. ( 8,721 ratings, 1,004 reviews)
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A Primate's Memoir
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Description
A Primate's Memoir offers an enthralling journey through the life of Robert M. Sapolsky, who spent twenty-one years in an isolated part of Kenya with a troop of Savannah baboons. As a young Brooklyn native, Sapolsky dreamed of immersing himself in the world of primates, teaching himself Swahili and writing to prominent primatologists in preparation for his ultimate goal. At just twenty-one, he embarks on his adventure to Africa, only to find that the raw and untamed landscape starkly contrasts with the idyllic serenity he once imagined in the natural history museum diorama.
This engaging narrative spans Sapolsky's remarkable and often humorous efforts to earn the trust and friendship of the baboons. Isolated in the Serengeti without modern conveniences like electricity, running water, or telephones, he encounters an array of challenges that include local scams, questionable culinary encounters, and even a bizarre kidnapping. Despite these hardships, Sapolsky's bond with his primate companions deepens as he returns to them year after year.
Sapolsky's talent for storytelling shines as he vividly describes each baboon's personality, painting a compelling and affectionate portrait of his primate family. His experiences are not without tragedy, but they are also filled with moments of exhilaration, humour, and poignant reflection, encapsulating the essence of his life's work.
Renowned for his ability to transition complex scientific concepts into relatable narratives, Sapolsky brings to life the intertwining worlds of humans and primates, offering readers a fascinating look at behavioural biology. This memoir not only highlights the author's scientific acumen but also underscores the universal themes of curiosity, resilience, and the quest for understanding.
Praised by peers and critics alike, Oliver Sacks lauds him as 'one of the best scientist-writers of our time,' while the New York Times Review of Books equates A Primate's Memoir to an Iliad of the baboon world. It's an exhilarating, hilarious, and poignant read—an unmissable window into the coming-of-age story of one of our greatest scientific minds.
Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?
Smart and stylish, A Primate's Memoir is called a magnificent tale of morality. Its finely crafted narrative creates a memorable cast of characters and provides entertaining insights into Africa and its wildlife.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9781529112306
Publisher: Vintage Publishing
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 01 August 2019
Country: United Kingdom
Imprint: Vintage
Audience: General / adult, Tertiary education, Professional and scholarly
DIMENSIONS
Spine width: 25.0mm
Width: 130.0mm
Height: 197.0mm
Weight: 267g
Pages: 384
About the Author
Robert M. Sapolsky is a professor of biology and neurology at Stanford University and the recipient of a MacArthur Foundation 'Genius Grant'. His previous books includes the international bestseller Behave- The Biology of Humans at Our Best and Worst, The Trouble with Testosterone, Why Zebras Don't Get Ulcers and A Primate's Memoir.
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