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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Like most other primates, we humans form social groups for safety, comfort, and fun. This book is the result of such a grouping—a “fission-fusion” group of friends and fellows. Without them, you would not be reading these stories.

After a campus visit by Jane Goodall, the late president of Stetson University, H. Douglas Lee, urged me to focus my animal studies research on primates. Soon after, I participated in a workshop at the National Humanities Center—and came away confident that I could do that. I am grateful to everyone at the NHC. I could not have continued without the help, conversations, and tolerance of my friends in the American Society of Primatologists, especially Evan Zucker and Karen Bales. At Stetson University, Dean Grady Ballenger and the many members of the Professional Development Committee over the years have generously supported this project with grant funding and sabbatical leave.

For reading and responding when I asked, I am deeply grateful to my department chairs Tom Farrell and John Pearson and to my colleagues Terry Farrell and Emily Mieras. Librarians Cathy Ervin and Susan Derryberry provided material support, Terry Grieb provided technical support, and Cathy Burke’s help was essential in preparing this book for publication. Michelle Bezanson has contributed the wonderful line drawings at the beginning of each chapter; as well as anyone possibly could, she understands the borderland where art and science meet.

Without the support of Catherine Rainwater, Carrie Rohman, Karla Armbruster, and Sarah McFarland, I might have given up. The late Ann Burlin helped and encouraged me along the way. Thanks also to Patti Ragan at the Center for Great Apes. Rick Mueller, Nancy Vosburg, Ellen Phillips, Clifford Endres, Yves Clemmen, John Sanders, Tom Sanders, Marianne Sanders, and Vivian Sanders helped in many ways. Maggie the dog was supportive in her own way.

Without help from some of the scientists about whom I have written, I could not have completed this project. I am deeply grateful to Karen Strier for her advice and encouragement. Barbara Smuts and Robert Sapolsky responded generously to my requests for information and photographs. Lorna Joachim and Monica Mogilewsky opened their field sites and their hearts. I am grateful to Kendra Boileau and Julie Schoelles at Penn State University Press for understanding and honoring my intentions. I thank you all.