In My Family Tree: A Life With Chimpanzees

by Sheila Siddle, Doug Cress

The cofounder of the internationally renowned African animal refuge Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage describes her dedication to rescuing endangered animals, her role as an animal rights activist, and the unforgettable chimpanzees she has encountered along the way.

Genres: Nonfiction, Africa

284 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2002

Reviews

[Miranda · Rating 5 out of 5]

After volunteering at Chimfunshi for a month, I came home, and missed the work and faces of the sanctuary dearly. Since I had heard from the other volunteer about Sheila's story, and since Sheila had told me many stories herself, it was the perfect read to bring me back. What an amazing story about how the chimpanzee sanctuary got started, highlighting both the ups and down of their journey. It was inspiring to read about how it all began, and even better to know how far it has come. To read about some of the chimps I had gotten to know, that was truly special. Especially Mila.. She still carries a blanket with her everywhere, and wow is she ever smart. If I have one critic, I wish she would have spoke more of the keepers. I spent much time with Patrick, and the others, and I think it's a shame she doesn't give them the credit they deserve for all they do on a daily basis to make the chimps have a better life, (not even in the thank yous!) But that is a more personal note, and I think that this book is a great read for any animal lover.

[Janyce Murray · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love to read about how people get involved setting up animal sanctuaries, especially for chimps. They are so like our own babies in the beginning, but become so dangerous and difficult to control, in captivity, as they get older. That so many need to be given homes in sanctuaries is the unfortunate dilemma. The dedication of the Siddles to caring for so many chimps (and other animals) and to giving them the best kind of life possible is truly admirable.

[Ninbooklover · Rating 3 out of 5]

Okay so the first chapter almost made me cry.
Sandy's story was really sad but it shows us how strong animals can be and that animals especially chimps have the same emotions as us humans.
I've read better biographies so that's the reason I'm giving this 3.5/5 🌟 The writing is not the problem but I wasn't that impressed as the others. I loved the stories about the chimps and there journey.
The dedication the Siddles are giving these chimps are amazing and admirable. All animals deserve love and good care.

[Amy Dale · Rating 4 out of 5]

A lovely,easy to read memoir of a fantastic couple and an unforeseen destiny to save Chimps. Lots of intriguing and cute stories and some sad parts towards the end. I really liked Billy the hippo,she was so cute!

The amount of work and dedication they have is mind-blowing. So grateful to all people who run sanctuaries.

[Jake · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sheila has done so much for rescued chimps from the pet and bushmeat trades.

[Sue · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting, quick read. Very special people making a difference in the lives of many animals.

[Dani Byrne · Rating 4 out of 5]

a fascinating first-person account of falling into a unintended lifework.