This book was so inspiring to me. Ruth Harkness was so brave to go to China with one one to support her. I thought the book was very intense in some places. Reading this book was incredible. That generation and our generation have similars but are so different.

This was a non-fiction piece that almost read like a novel. In a fascinating story about a socialite turned adventurer, Ruth Harkness leaves Manhattan for the wilderness of 1930s China and leads an expedition to capture and bring back the first Giant Panda. This well-researched work offers an interesting snapshot of the period, touching upon the political unrest in China, the changing role of women, US foreign relations, cross-cultural relationships, and the beginnings of the conservation movement. One comes away with an appreciation of the land, people and culture of China. Great book for discussion!