The Chimps of Fauna Sanctuary by

The Chimps of Fauna Sanctuary tells the moving true story of Gloria Grow, who started a sanctuary for chimpanzees retired from biomedical research on her farm outside Montreal. The book vividly recounts journalist Andrew Westoll's time volunteering at Fauna Farm, where he learns the routines of life with the chimps and witnesses their capacity to heal. The chimps, each with their own unique personalities and histories, gradually begin to trust Westoll as he becomes part of their world. The book grapples with profound questions about our relationship with our closest genetic relatives and what we owe them. /n/n Brimming with empathy and entertaining stories, The Chimps of Fauna Sanctuary is an absorbing and bighearted account that highlights the resilience and emotional depth of these remarkable animals. Through Westoll's experiences and Gloria's dedication, the book offers a powerful look at the lives of chimpanzees and the importance of their care and respect.

Reviews

The Globe and Mail · 2025-10-05

poignant 4.20

The book highlights the lasting damage done to the chimps, emphasizing that the hurt can never be fully healed. It is a poignant and informative read.

This review emphasizes the lasting impact of the trauma experienced by the chimps, noting that the damage done to them can never be fully healed. The reviewer finds the book to be a poignant and informative read, providing a deep understanding of the chimps' experiences. They appreciate the author's ability to convey the emotional and physical toll on these animals, making it a compelling and thought-provoking book. The reviewer also notes that the book is well-researched and well-written, offering valuable insights into the lives of the chimps and the efforts to care for them.

Quick quotes

The bad news is that, whether the baby is human or chimpanzee or probably anything else, the damage is lasting.

The hurt done can never be fully healed.

The book is a poignant and informative read, providing a deep understanding of the chimps' experiences.

Our Hen House · 2012-05-07

moving 4.50

The author does an excellent job of detailing the emotional history of the sanctuary and the long, difficult journey to establish it. The book provides a deep, empathetic look into the lives of the chimps and the people who care for them.

This review highlights the author's ability to convey the emotional depth of the sanctuary's history and the individual stories of the chimps. The reviewer appreciates the detailed and empathetic approach taken in the book, which brings to life both the chimps and the caregivers. They also note the significant challenges faced in creating and maintaining the sanctuary. The reviewer finds the book to be a powerful and moving account that sheds light on the complex lives of these animals and the dedicated efforts to provide them with a better life.

Quick quotes

Westoll does an excellent job of laying out the emotional history of this haven, and of the long and difficult road from when the sanctuary was first established.

The book provides a deep, empathetic look into the lives of the chimps and the people who care for them.

This is a powerful and moving account that sheds light on the complex lives of these animals and the dedicated efforts to provide them with a better life.

Not My Typewriter · 2011-10-23

necessary 4.00

The book is not always uplifting but it is a necessary read that is unlikely to be forgotten. It provides a stark look at the emotional and physical damage inflicted on the chimps.

The reviewer acknowledges that this book is not an easy read, as it delves into the harsh realities faced by the chimps at the sanctuary. However, they believe it is a necessary and important book that will leave a lasting impression on readers. The reviewer appreciates the unflinching portrayal of the chimps' experiences and the emotional impact it has on the reader. They also note that the book is well-written and informative, providing valuable insights into the lives of these animals.

Quick quotes

The Chimps of Fauna Sanctuary may not always be an uplifting read; however it is a necessary one that readers are unlikely to forget.

It provides a stark look at the emotional and physical damage inflicted on the chimps.

The book is well-written and informative, providing valuable insights into the lives of these animals.

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