Chasing after Chimpanzees: The Making of a Primatologist

Having moved from zoology to psychology to anthropology on both sides of the Atlantic, Bill McGrew developed a fascination for chimpanzees which led to him spending four decades studying our nearest living relations in their African homelands. He held a series of academic posts in the USA and UK, culminating in a professorship at the University of Cambridge and ending in retirement to Scotland. As he puts it: I was lucky enough to be paid by various academic institutions to do what I would have paid them to let me do . This memoir consists of a series of stories and vignettes from a varied and colourful life, mainly involving animals, and naturally focusing on chimpanzees. All proceeds will go to organisations that rescue and care for chimpanzees. One of the world’s foremost primatologists, who sought adventures in Africa to follow chimpanzees in the wild, offers glimpses of his life. Funny, warm, unexpected.
Frans de Waal, author of Mama’s Last Hug

Chasing after chimpanzees can be hilarious… McGrew came to be the world’s expert on the richness and diversity of chimpanzee cultures as well as a commentator on the comedic aspects of the lives of those who study them.
Sarah Blaffer Hrdy, author of Mothers and Others

Renowned primatologist William McGrew has written a lovely memoir, a series of vignettes about key moments in his life and career. A heartfelt glimpse into one scientist’s fascinating life, and a thoroughly enjoyable read.
Craig Stanford, author of The New Chimpanzee

Cover Picture: Observational learning: chimpanzee mother performs hygienic operation on her foot, removing a sub-dermal sand flea, watched closely by her daughter, Mahale, 2007. (Photo by Agumi Inaba)