Customer Reviews

The Impenetrable Forest: My Gorilla Years in Uganda, Revised Edition

5 star:		(18)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(2)
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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.

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.

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.

What a truly delightful book! Mr. Hanson eloquently combines his often hilarious experience as a "muzungu" (white person) with a poignent revealing view of life in Uganda amidst the post Idi Amin era. Nestled between this rapidly changing Ugandan landscape exist the Gorillas. It was a real trill to be able to plod along on adventures that not only reveal a glimspe of gorillas but also a glimpse of ourselves.

We were extremely fortunate to read Thor's book just prior to going to Uganda and spending three days in the Inpenetrable Forest and treking to see the two groups of gorillas. It was an experience of a lifetime. We are now re-reading Thor's book to relive the experience. The guides remember Thor fondly and speak very highly of him. Wonderful book and experience!!!...

Thumbs up to Thor Hanson on an excellent book for people who have traveled to rural Africa, and a MUST read for anyone planning a visit to the Bwindi forest. Hanson's descriptions on the Ugandan people, landscape, food, and adventure, fit the country perfectly. Read the book, then take a trip to the Bwindi forest where you can visit the entire cast of characters including Phenny, Levi, Medad and more. In Africa, all things change slowly, and Buhoma is much they same as it was in 1995.

I came across this book accidentally when I was looking for books on Uganda. It is truly a gem--very funny and full of anecdotes about life in Uganda as a volunteer, specifically what it is like to live in the forest working on gorilla habituation efforts.

I loved this book, couldn't wait to turn the page. I highly recommend it.

Most Americans wouldn't be able to cut it in a small rural village in Africa. "The Impenetrable Forest: My Gorilla Years in Uganda" is Thor Hanson's reflections on his suffering for his craft as he stayed in such a village in order to further his studies on the endangered species of the Mountain Gorilla. A candid and vivid account about all the difficulties he had to face, "The Impenetrable Forest" is a riveting tale that will please primate lovers seeking a story of a man's dedication to science.