Smitten by Giraffe: My Life as a Citizen Scientist

Anne Innis was smitten by giraffes when she saw them at the age of three, and twenty years later, she set off to Africa to study their behavior in the wild. She later married physicist Ian Dagg and had three children. Despite her many publications and exemplary teaching record, she was frustrated in her efforts to secure a position as a tenured professor. She instead pursued her research as an independent "citizen scientist" and fought against the marginalization of women in the arts and sciences. Her book, Smitten by Giraffe, offers an inside perspective on scientific research and debate, the history of academia, and the rise of second-wave feminism.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 18 August 2021
Publisher: McGill-Queen's University Press

When Anne Innis first laid eyes on a giraffe at the tender age of three, her heart was forever captivated. She knew that she had to delve deeper into the world of this magnificent animal and uncover its secrets. Twenty years later, armed with a degree in zoology, Anne embarked on a solitary journey to Africa, determined to study the behavior of giraffes in their natural habitat. It was a journey that would inspire the likes of Jane Goodall and Dian Fossey, who, too, were driven by an unwavering devotion to understanding the behavior of wild apes.

Upon her return to Canada, Anne married physicist Ian Dagg and together, they created a loving family. Anne's passion for science continued to flourish, as she published numerous scientific papers, taught at several local universities, and in 1967, she earned her PhD in biology at the University of Waterloo. Despite her impressive academic achievements, Dagg faced constant frustration in her quest for a tenured professorship. The academic world seemed to be resistant to the idea of a woman holding such a prestigious position. Undeterred, Anne chose to pursue her research as an independent "citizen scientist," while also working part-time as an academic advisor.

Throughout her career, Dagg fought tirelessly against the marginalization of women in the arts and sciences. She boldly documented the widespread sexism that existed in universities, shedding light on the challenges that women faced in pursuing scientific careers. At the same time, she delved into important zoological topics such as homosexuality, infanticide, sociobiology, and taxonomy, offering insights into the complex world of animal behavior.

Smitten by Giraffe, a captivating memoir, provides an intimate glimpse into the workings of scientific research and debate, the history of academia, and the rise of second-wave feminism. Written with honesty and passion, Anne's memoir offers readers a unique perspective on the world of science and the challenges that women have faced throughout history. A new preface added to this edition sheds light on Dagg's experience as the subject of the documentary "The Woman Who Loves Giraffes," which further amplifies her remarkable story.

In conclusion, Anne Innis's journey from a young girl captivated by giraffes to a renowned zoologist and feminist is a testament to the power of passion and determination. Her unwavering commitment to studying animals and her fight against gender inequality have left an indelible mark on the world of science and inspired countless others to pursue their dreams. Through her memoir, Smitten by Giraffe, we are privileged to witness the remarkable life of a woman who refused to be silenced and who paved the way for a more inclusive and equitable future.

Weight: 472g
Dimension: 234 x 230 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780228009177