The creation of a human hybrid with our closest living relative, the chimpanzee, has not been ruled out as an impossibility, but would any laboratory want to be involved? Why invite global condemnation and raise social, moral and legal storms? It was certainly not the intention of the Strickland family, who are innocently involved with research and a veterinary practice in rural England.

By any measure, the Stricklands are decent, hard-working folk and are appalled and incredulous to find themselves responsible for a hybrid baby. The strain of maintaining secrecy takes a heavy toll on family life and the predicament is made worse by the emotional bonds that form as the baby becomes an endearing little infant. What hope can there be for a brighter future?

Not surprisingly, from an author with a background in science, this extraordinary story is interwoven with much that is true.