Mr. Ape is a charming and whimsical novel by Dick King-Smith. The story centers on a strange, eccentric man who decides to adopt a baby chimpanzee and raises him with surprising success. The plot follows the relationship between the man and the chimp, exploring the humorous and often chaotic situations that arise from bringing a wild animal into a human household. King-Smith's gentle humor and deep love for animals shine through, as the story champions the unconventional and celebrates the unexpected bonds that can form between species. The book promotes themes of acceptance, love, and the simple joys of a non-conformist life.