The Impenetrable Forest

Excellent view of Uganda and the culture of both the people and wildlife in existence at the start of the eco-tourism movement in that part of the world. The ability to experience the world of Thor as he was experiencing the joys and hardships as he co-existed with the people and animals of Uganda was fascinating. I really "felt" as though I was right there with him as he became accustomed to the new way of life - intertwined with his new culture, gaining acceptance with the natives. An excellent read! Jim Sandler Vernon, N.J.

This book was an easy read but still packed with lots of information. Not only about all the gorillas, and their individual personalities, but also about what it was like living with the people in Uganda. It also touched on the history of African exploration and the study of gorillas. I really didn't know much about topic and I now have much more empathy for both the gorillas and also for the people who live near them. Even if like me you're not a "gorilla person" I think you'll find this book funny, compassionate and a good adventure story.

Thor Hanson has introduced me to a place I now would love to travel to. After reading this book I feel like I'm friends not only with Thor--who has a great sense of humor and an interest in all living things--but with the people and gorillas of Bwindi. Without being lectured to I learned about the habits and habitats of mountain gorillas, the many ways to make and enjoy the local beer or wine, the history and politics of Uganda and when and why you should paint a baboon's back end white! I highly recommend this book.

This is a great book. Written in a clear, easy-to-read style the author does a great job of weaving together descriptions of the mountain gorillas in Bwindi National Park with descriptions of the Uganda people and their culture, the politics and history of the country and other aspects of his experiences there. If you are looking for a book with detailed, scientifically-oriented analysis of the mountain gorillas, this is not the book for you, nor is this the book for you if you are looking for great color photographs of the animals and the country (he only has black and white photos of so-so quality). But, if what you are looking for is a book that allows you to learn about a variety of aspects of life in Uganda, its people and the gorillas this is a great choice. It would be the perfect book to read prior to a trip to the region to see the park and its gorilla population.

I got this book when I went home for the holidays. I finished it before I got home. I'm now reading it for a second time.I would say it is equally about (1) humorous human interactions, (2) learning about the mountain gorillas, and (3) modern day African culture. This isn't a book for scientist, rather a book for everyday readers that want to learn something about Africa, gorillas, and want to be entertained in the process.