The title might suggest this is a book regarding the intellectual abilities of the orangutan. Whilst cerebral abilities are addressed early on, this is not the focus of the book: This is a report by conservationists of primary information regarding the wholesale destruction of a massive habitat and the sickening consequences for highly sentient beings.
Schuster initially makes a strong case for the orangutan as the deep and considered thinker of the great apes. The narrative is often anecdotal, but the information contained is clear, first hand and unique. The text is easy to read - every detail is interesting and at least three quarters of the large (317) pages are lavish colour photos.
The main thrust of this book exposes appalling destruction and cruelty in Indonesia, and the dauntless efforts of those with a moral sense to mitigate this. Some of the more graphic material has been edited out, yet the stark realities are thoroughly communicated. This would make depressing reading were it not balanced with the reports of resolute courage in the face of adversity: The innocence of our orange cousins is also accompanied by wonderfully strong altruistic character, accepting people despite outrageous mistreatment.
Schuster concludes with a more uplifting chapter on what can be achieved to save the rapidly declining populations (about 5,000 per year), in the form of a sanctuary. One won't be enough - there are at least 2 species and several sub species, but this is a vital step.
I take no pleasure out of criticising this valuable book, but I will: The only serious fault is a lack of academic/scientific rigour, as many contentious issues are explored. The are no references! Granted - most of the information is first hand and sad to say very believable. Schuster describes his training as that of a rainforest ecologist (p265). When writing the chapter relating orangutan species & subspecies, I would have expected Schuster to mention if cross-breeding has occurred, how recently, and if so are the offspring fertile.
In summary, this book is a wonderful resource, very reasonably priced and I would far rather own this than many books which tick every box. I felt frequently challenged - this is a real eye opener. Buy this, read it, then use it as a coffee table book if you dare!
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