Gorilla dreams

Gorilla Dreams is a collection of two contrasting tales, both offered to a class by Mr Eden, a teacher who brings stories to life. The first is a lively, slapstick comedy about Gilbert, a kind-hearted gorilla who longs to be seen as cool, much like his schoolmate Groover the Mover, who rides a skateboard and a motorbike. Gilbert, however, is keeping a secret that threatens to leave him looking ridiculous.

The second story is told by Sanyu, a silverback in a troop living in Uganda. He fits the picture that wildlife books paint of his kind in every way except one: he loves to dance. Sanyu shares his story with a girl named Akello, whose life holds hardship, poverty and risk alongside bravery and beauty.

Mr Eden himself is a presence throughout, as much a character as a storyteller. The question the book leaves with readers is what he really knows about gorilla dreams.