how to build a page-turner of a novel around a contentious area of moral ambiguity 
 great narrator, Rosemary Cooke, dealing with shrinking family and underlying sense of guilt as siblings leave the family. 
 Great voice, dry wit and some beautifully observed scenes. 
 very nuanced view on (view spoiler)[ how we treat animals within our society, how we use and abuse and exploit. Touches on the nature of our consciousness, solipsism, umwelt, theory of the mind in exploring how we try to distinguish ourselves from animal kingdom, how little we understand, and how similar we really are to closest relations. 
 None of these done with a heavy hand, shows a lot of thought and consideration have been given and research has been done, but the points are woven skillfully into a funny, engaging narrative. Comes across like a late night pub discussion with someone who really knows the topic 
 The twist in the tale 1/4 way through is very well executed - being raised with chimpanzee sister to explore learning and growth and interaction of both species (hide spoiler)] 
 moral fable mixed with autobiographical detail, scientific exploration and well-timed humour