Book review by Aarene Storms: Temple Grandin : how the girl who loved cows embraced autism and changed the world

Review by Aarene Storms, youth services librarian
Richmond Beach and Lake Forest Park Libraries, KCLS

Temple Grandin : how the girl who loved cows embraced autism and changed the world 

by Sy Montgomery

Humane activists and meat industry representatives may argue over many issues, but on one point they agree:  Temple Grandin is a godsend for animals.  She is the only person in the world who has been honored by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals and also inducted into the Meat Industry Hall of Fame.

Temple Grandin was just three years old when she was diagnosed with autism.  When she was growing up in the 1950's, little was understood about the autism spectrum, and autistic children were routinely labelled "retarded" or "schizophrenic", and treated accordingly.  However, Temple's mother steadfastly advocated for her daughter, seeking out schools, teachers and therapists who would encourage the girl's talents, creativity, and intellect.  Today, Dr. Temple Grandin is a professor of animal science at Colorado State University, and is considered the world authority and consultant on the respectful, humane treatment of animals raised for food. She has designed groundbreaking facilities and equipment that protect livestock from fear and suffering because her autism permits her to think the way animals do.

This book, written with Temple Grandin's cooperation (she contributed an introduction and an appendix of advice for kids on the autism spectrum, as well as technical drawings and family photographs), is not only a biography of a contemporary scientist.  It is also full of details about autism--what it is, and what it isn't.  Sidebars emphasize that autism is not a disease or a dysfunction, and that people do not outgrow the condition.  The book also details some of the less-than-lovely functions of meat-packing plants; while never gory, it does not sidestep humanitarian issues surrounding animal slaughter.

Highly recommended for ages 10 to adult. 

Editor's note: Temple Grandin has a fascinating talk on TED about her life, work, and autism.