My first week working at National Geographic Society I stepped into the elevator one morning and Jane Goodall was standing there with several other people. My jaw dropped. I regretted not having had the courage to introduce myself, tell her what an inspiration she was to me. Kicked myself for not having thought of something clever or witty to say. Four years late I was the photo editor on a book that has been one of the most rewarding projects I have worked on. Jane Goodall is a force to be reckoned with, a tornado of energy and drive working to make a difference in the lives of people and animals around the globe. Having access to her personal archive of photos and working with her archivist was an experience I will never forget. This book has been out for just a short time but the star reviews are already coming in, this one from the School Library Journal:

"Featuring gorgeous, full-color photographs; primary sources; and fun nature facts, this biography of Jane Goodall will easily entice children. Goodall is presented as inspiring and intelligent as well as down-to-earth in her personality and methods. Silvey focuses on the scientist’s relationship to the chimpanzees she studied, and also discusses the anthropologist’s trajectory from curious young girl to respected scientist (black-and-white childhood photos and anecdotes add to the appeal). Sidebars provide additional material, such as brief profiles of her mentor, Louis Leakey, and her mother. The photographs of Goodall and her primate friends are beautiful, and the book is well designed and laid out with care. The writing is clear and concise, and learning about the subject’s work in such an accessible manner will boost children’s self-confidence, especially girls with an interest in science. VERDICT An ideal purchase for science or biography collections,"–Shalini Miskelly, St. Benedict Catholic School, Seattle, WA