THE IMPENETRABLE FOREST

"Thor  Hanson's memoir is a fascinating and enjoyable read.  Particularly  timely, it gives us great insight into conservation and ecotourism in a  world that is often harsh and cruel.  More so, though, Impenetrable  Forest transforms the mountain gorillas of Uganda and the people who care for them into deep, complex, loving characters. "
—Garth Stein, author of The Art of Racing in the Rain

"...a  downright wonderful book.  A fine writer and a superb naturalist, he  brings the true observer's eye and the artist's sensibility to one of  the most compelling subjects in all natural history....an unforgettable  book—funny, tragic and brilliant."

—Robert Michael Pyle, author of Sky Time in Gray's River and Where Bigfoot Walks

"Like a warm cup of sweet Mexican atole on a cold morning, this book fills your belly and makes you smile."

—Lawrence F. Lihosit, author of Across the Yucatan

"Thor  Hanson’s ‘The Impenetrable Forest’ takes us on several remarkable  journeys.... Hanson’s lighthearted, yet poignant stories of life in  Uganda make you feel like you are right next to him throughout his  adventures and misadventures.  The book uniquely intertwines the natural  history of mountain gorillas with the culture of the people that live  as their neighbors.  I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants a  personal account, yet well-rounded view, of the conservation issues  surrounding a charismatic species such as the mountain gorilla."

—Martha M. Robbins, PhD, Department of Primatology Max Planck Institute

 "Great reading for everyone with a sense of adventure and interested in protecting our natural world."

—Craig R. Sholley, African Wildlife Foundation

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"Thor  Hanson spent two years protecting the Mountain Gorillas of the Bwindi  Impenetrable Forest, saving their habitat as he habituated them to  tourists, and bringing a source of income to the villagers living at the  edge of this remote forest in southern Uganda. If you love to read  about people who’ve made a difference, Thor’s life—full of successes and  disappointments—makes a fascinating, inspiring memoir.” 

—John Coyne, Living on the Edge: Fiction by Peace Corps Writers

"Thor Hanson’s Impenetrable Forest is a fascinating account of African reality that explores vital issues  for the survival of mountain gorillas.  It is an engaging personal story  of change and challenge, an articulate natural and cultural history,  and a clear call to conscience to preserve habitat and species."

—Phil Condon, author of Montana Surround