Smithsonian Zoo Director Shares Untold Stories of Giant Pandas in New Book

Dr. Brandie Smith knows giant pandas in a way few people ever will. Now, the John and Adrienne Mars Director of the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI) is sharing surprising and little-known stories about the nation’s most beloved panda family and the decades-long effort to save giant pandas from extinction. Published by Atria Books, an imprint of Simon & Schuster, In the Company of Pandas: My Life with the World’s Favorite Bear is available for preorder now through major online retailers and goes on sale Tuesday, Nov. 10, in hardcover, eBook and audiobook formats. Proceeds from the book support the NZCBI’s giant panda conservation program. 

In the Company of Pandas: My Life with the World’s Favorite Bear takes readers behind the scenes of caring for three generations of giant panda cele-bear-ities, revealing their distinct personalities, quirks and habits. With humor, candor and firsthand experience, Smith dispels common misconceptions; makes the fascinating science of panda breeding, biology and evolution accessible; and reveals what it really takes to care for these extraordinary animals. From raising panda cubs to navigating the diplomacy involved in bringing pandas from China to Washington, D.C., Smith reveals how science, international collaboration and dedicated animal care have helped change the future of giant pandas—and why continued conservation efforts remain essential. 

Smith will celebrate In the Company of Pandas’ official publication day, Tuesday, Nov. 10, with a ticketed book talk at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo. Tickets are $10. Attendees who purchase the book in advance for $30 will receive an autographed copy at the event.  

About the Author 

Smith draws on decades of experience in animal care, conservation and zoo management. She has overseen critical breeding programs for endangered species and witnessed some of the most dramatic moments in panda conservation history. Originally from Indiana, Pennsylvania, she grew up around animals and began her professional career as an intern at the Pittsburgh Zoo and NZCBI. Today, she leads one of the world’s premier zoological and research institutions in its mission to save global biodiversity.  

Early Praise for In the Company of Pandas 

“Cheerful and enlightening…Panda fans will be delighted…A sparkling account of caring for beloved bears.”—Kirkus Reviews 

“[Smith’s] passion for the creatures shines throughout. Animal lovers will find much to appreciate.” 
—Publishers Weekly 

Product Details 
Title: In the Company of Pandas 
Author: Brandie Smith 
Publisher: Atria Books 
ISBN: 978-1-66802-772-1 
Retail Price: $30.00 
Formats: Hardcover, eBook and unabridged audiobook

Photo caption 1: In the Company of Pandas releases Nov. 10, 2026.  
Photo credit 1: Simon & Schuster 

Photo caption 2: Dr. Brandie Smith, the John and Adrienne Mars Director of the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, has spent decades working to save wildlife, including the iconic giant panda. 
Photo credit 2: Skip Brown, Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute