This book investigates the life and conservation efforts of Dian Fossey to protect the endangered mountain gorillas of central Africa. Author Norma Shapiro presents a biographical account of Fossey's twenty-year commitment to studying and defending these primates against the threats of poaching, war, and habitat destruction. The text utilizes a structured narrative approach designed for educational purposes, focusing on the intersection of scientific observation and environmental activism. It documents the specific challenges Fossey faced while living in the Virunga Mountains and the ultimate sacrifice she made for her cause.

This text is widely recognized as a foundational educational resource for students developing their English vocabulary through biographical content. Educators frequently note that the prose is accessible and effectively balances historical facts with a compelling narrative structure.