In this book, Schaller relives his experiences with the development of a giant panda conservation project. Though he spent many years in the field in China learning about the basic ecology of pandas, this book is as much about the politics and bureaucracy of the project, as about the fieldwork. As most conservationists will know, this emphasis accurately reflects the realities of conservation projects where, all too often, good intentions are soured by personal differences, inflated egos and political point-scoring.

As a cautionary note on the realities of conservation, this is an immensely important book. Those conservationists who have seen their hopes shattered by political realities will be reassured that even George Schaller can become disheartened and bogged down in bureaucracy. Finally, as an insight into the continued precariousness of the panda's plight, this book will be a reminder that a conservationist's job is never done. Perhaps a new generation of Chinese will read this book and act now to reverse decades of environmental vandalism. On that score, however, the book can offer little hope.


A comprehensive study of the life of the giant panda.   October 16, 1998
 1 out of 1 found this review helpful

In this book, George Schaller depicts the giant panda of China not only as a "cute" and lovable creature, but that it is also in a struggle to overcome extinction. I enjoyed reading this book because George Schaller writes down his most inner thoughts and feelings regarding the panda project in China. He does not hold anything back from the reader. From reading this book, I learned about the plight of the panda that other books have failed to mention.