The protagonist of Ape is a chimpanzee mastermind who matches wits with poachers, idealistic scientists, a determined Rwandan policeman, an American college student, and a petty government official in a deadly struggle to survive. The gripping story ranges just one or two steps beyond scientific reality as it explores chimpanzee intelligence and emotion, their rights and responsibilities, and whether they can be criminals. The people and the chimpanzees face violence, rivalries, treachery, revenge, frayed loyalties, and touching friendships.