In the Shadow of Man

Hardcover

Non-Fiction

297

2018-06-26 18:25:03

This is a fascinating copy of a highly significant book! Here is an overview based on the images you provided and general knowledge about the book.
📚 Book Overview: In the Shadow of Man
In the Shadow of Man (1971) is a non-fiction book by Jane van Lawick-Goodall (now known as Jane Goodall) that documents her groundbreaking early years of study with wild chimpanzees in the Gombe Stream National Park in Tanzania.
Key Points:
* Content: The book functions as both a scientific study and a memoir, detailing her unlikely journey and her intimate, long-term observations of chimpanzee behavior.
* Groundbreaking Discoveries: It chronicles her revolutionary discoveries, notably that chimpanzees make and use tools (previously thought to be an exclusively human trait) and that they are not strict vegetarians (they hunt and eat meat).
* Significance: These observations forever changed the scientific community’s understanding of chimpanzees and redefined the boundary between humans and the rest of the animal kingdom.
Historical Importance
Yes, it is a historically important book.
* It is considered a classic of primatology and natural history.
* It introduced the public to Jane Goodall’s work and her revolutionary, non-traditional methods (such as naming the chimpanzees instead of numbering them), helping to ignite a global interest in conservation and animal welfare.
* The discoveries detailed within fundamentally altered our view of human evolution and our connection to other primates.
🔍 Edition and Signatures Analysis
Is it a First Edition?
Based on the image of the copyright page:
* Copyright Date: The copyright is © 1971 by Hugo and Jane van Lawick-Goodall.
* Printing Statement: It states ”Third Printing w”.
Conclusion: This copy is a Third Printing of the first edition, published by Houghton Mifflin Company in 1971.
* Note: The first edition was published in 1971, so while this is not the First Printing, it is still an early, first edition issue.
Significance of the Signatures
The signature is clearly ”Jane Goodall.” Since the book was published under the name Jane van Lawick-Goodall, this suggests the signature was added later, or she signed it using her more widely known name.
* Significance: Jane Goodall is a world-renowned scientist, conservationist, and humanitarian. A genuine signature from her is significant and highly desirable to collectors. The quality and placement of the signature on the half-title page (under the illustrated beaver/animal) are excellent.
💰 Estimated Value
The value of this specific book is determined by its condition and, most importantly, the signature. Please note: I cannot give a formal appraisal, but I can provide a realistic range based on current market data for similar sales.
| Factor | Detail | Impact on Value |
|---|---|---|
| Edition | Third Printing (1971) | Less than a First Printing, but still early. |
| Condition | Unknown (needs professional assessment) | A book in Very Good to Fine condition with a dust jacket commands the highest price. Your dust jacket appears to be present, which is good. |
| Signature | Signed by Jane Goodall | This is the primary value driver. |
Estimated Value Range for a Signed, Early Printing with a Dust Jacket:
* Based on recent sales for signed copies of early printings (often 2nd/3rd/etc. printings) of this book in Very Good condition with a dust jacket, the value could range from approximately $200 to $600+.
* If the book were a First Printing, First Edition, signed, the value would likely be much higher, potentially $600 to over $1,000, depending on condition.
To get the most accurate estimate, you should have the condition professionally assessed and potentially have the signature authenticated, as this is a key factor in its market value.
Would you like me to search for videos that discuss Jane Goodall’s life and work, or perhaps look for authenticated examples of her signature to compare?


Based on the images provided, here is an overview of the book, its historical importance, edition, and potential value.
Book Overview
The book is titled ”In the Shadow of Man,” by Jane van Lawick-Goodall. It features a photograph of the author with two chimpanzees on the cover. Another image shows a handwritten signature that reads ”Jane Goodall.”
Historical Importance
Jane Goodall (born 1934) is one of the most famous and influential primatologists and conservationists in the world. Her groundbreaking research on chimpanzees in Tanzania, which began in 1960, revolutionized our understanding of animal behavior, revealing that chimps use tools, have complex social structures, and exhibit a range of emotions previously thought to be exclusive to humans. In the Shadow of Man, first published in 1971, is her seminal work, bringing her discoveries to a global audience. This book is a monumental work in the fields of primatology, ethology, and conservation and is of immense historical and scientific importance.
Is it a First Edition?
To confirm if this specific copy is a first edition, one would need to see the copyright page. The book was originally published in 1971. The condition of the dust jacket (worn and torn) is consistent with an early copy. If the copyright page lists 1971 and no subsequent printings, it is a first edition.
Are any of the signatures significant?
Yes, the signature is extremely significant. It is that of the author, Jane Goodall, who is an iconic figure in science and a hero of the conservation movement. Her autograph is highly sought after by collectors of scientific works, natural history, and modern history. She is a major figure, and a signed copy of her most famous book is a very desirable item.
Value
The value of this book is determined by its edition, condition, and the presence of the author’s signature.
* Condition: The dust jacket is clearly worn and has tears, which will significantly decrease its value. The book itself would need to be in good condition to offset the damage to the jacket.
* Edition: A first edition is more valuable than later printings.
* The Signature: The signature of Jane Goodall is the most important factor in the book’s value.
Based on these factors, here is a general value estimate:
* An unsigned first edition in good condition with a good dust jacket can be worth anywhere from $50 to $150. The poor condition of the dust jacket in your photo would likely drop the value of an unsigned copy to $20 to $50.
* A signed copy, even in the condition shown, is much more valuable. A signed first edition of In the Shadow of Man is a top-tier collector’s item. Despite the wear on the dust jacket, the signature makes it a highly valuable piece. Such a copy could be valued in the range of $200 to $500 or more, especially if the signature is authentic and a first printing.
For a precise valuation, it is highly recommended to consult a professional appraiser who specializes in books related to science, especially those of major scientific figures.

Mariner Books

9780395331453

1988

1

English

~$400.00

2025-11-30

2018-06-26 18:25:03