Woman in the Mists
| Company type | Book |
|---|---|
| Industry | Publishing |
| Founded | 1987 |
| Founder | Farley Mowat |
| Products | Biography book |
Woman in the Mists: The Story of Dian Fossey and the Mountain Gorillas of Africa is a 1987 biography chronicling the life of conservationist Dian Fossey, who dedicated herself to studying and living among mountain gorilla populations in Rwanda. Authored by Canadian writer and environmental advocate Farley Mowat, renowned for Never Cry Wolf, the book emphasizes Fossey's unwavering commitment to protecting gorillas.
Plot
After leaving her position at a U.S. pediatric hospital, Dian Fossey embarked on a career as a field anthropologist in Africa, exhibiting the resolve that shaped her life's work and eventual destiny. In 1960, she arranged a meeting with eminent anthropologist Louis Leakey, who motivated her to conduct direct research on mountain gorillas in Central Africa—an undertaking she pursued despite objections from her acquaintances and relatives.
While initially following a path akin to that of Jane Goodall, Fossey soon concentrated her efforts on safeguarding mountain gorillas. Known for her forceful opposition to poaching and hunting, she became a figure of controversy. In December 1985, she was fatally attacked at her camp in Africa. Mowat intimates, without extensive elaboration, that corporate entities resistant to her conservation mission might have played a role.
Themes
Mowat depicts Fossey as deeply devoted to gorilla conservation while also recognizing her obstinate and challenging nature. Her feelings of alienation and bitterness, coupled with limited close relationships, may have influenced the tragic circumstances surrounding her death. The narrative also highlights the significant ecological and commercial implications of protecting mountain gorillas, reflecting Mowat’s environmental principles.
Publication
The book’s title references Dian Fossey’s 1983 work Gorillas in the Mist, which recounted her experiences with mountain gorillas and served as the basis for the 1988 biographical movie Gorillas in the Mist featuring Sigourney Weaver.
- Woman in the Mists: The Story of Dian Fossey and the Mountain Gorillas of Africa, Warner Books, 1987, 380 pages, Hardcover
- Virunga: The Passion of Dian Fossey, McClelland & Stewart, 1987, 427 pages, Hardcover
- Woman in the Mists, Macdonald, 1988, Hardcover
- Woman in the Mists, Grand Central Publishing, 1988, Paperback
- Woman in the Mists, Turtleback Books, UK, 2001, Hardcover
Literary reception
Stefan Kanfer from Time Magazine commended Mowat’s nuanced depiction of Fossey, emphasizing her dedication to wildlife preservation despite personal struggles and misanthropic tendencies. He acknowledged credible claims regarding government-backed assassins while recognizing Fossey’s multifaceted personality.
A reviewer for Publishers Weekly described the biography as "a compelling narrative from start to its grim conclusion," noting its widespread appeal due to Fossey’s volatile character and Mowat’s fervent advocacy for animal protection.
Frank Reiser writing for Library Journal labeled it "captivating" and "indispensable reading" for those who appreciate selflessness in efforts toward species conservation.