The author presents results of long field study of nonhuman primates, combining comparative anatomy and a proposed phonetic system with firsthand observations and anecdotes from both wild and captive individuals. Chapters examine skull structure, the origins and mechanics of speech-like sounds, gestures, counting, social and ethical behavior, and daily life in the jungle and in captivity. Detailed case histories of chimpanzees, gorillas, orangs, gibbons, and named individuals illustrate intelligence, social bonds, mourning, learning, and interaction with humans, and the book concludes with practical advice on housing, feeding, and caring for apes.