Delia Akeley and the Monkey

During a 1909 hunting expedition in East Africa, Delia Akeley, a solitary American woman, unexpectedly forms a profound bond with a baby vervet monkey she names JT Jr., sparking her talents in research and observation. This relationship not only transforms her personal life but also sheds light on themes of human-animal connection and gender inequality. Iain McCalman’s narrative draws from various records to explore a compelling story of love, rivalry, and discovery that resonates with contemporary issues.