REVIEWS+

Almost Chimpanzee

Searching for What Makes Us Human, in Rainforests, Labs, Sanctuaries, and Zoos
by Jon Cohen
Almost Chimpanzee: Searching for What Makes Us Human, in Rainforests, Labs, Sanctuaries, and Zoos. Times Bks: Holt. Sept. 2010. c.384p. illus. index. ISBN 9780805083071. $27.50. NAT HIST
COPY ISBN
Cohen (Coming to Term: Uncovering the Truth About Miscarriage), a well-known correspondent for Science magazine, has written a fascinating study of the differences that separate humans from chimpanzees (as opposed to other recent titles that address similarities) and current primatology research. He organizes his book into three main sections, "Blood," "Brains," and "Bodies," to provide a framework to set his discussions in motion. For example, in "Blood," there is a chapter on hybrid animals (e.g., ligers, the cross between tigers and lions), and Cohen explains the research theory that humans and chimpanzees came from a hybrid line that then separated into two distinct species.
VERDICT Although Cohen's book is technical at times, educated lay readers interested in primate studies will appreciate his attention to detail and his engaging prose.
Reviewed by Kyrille Goldbeck, Virginia Polytechnic Inst. & State Univ. Lib., Blacksburg , Sep 15, 2010
Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?