Temple Grandin: How the Girl Who Loved Cows Embraced Autism and Changed the World

Gr 6-8--Montgomery paints a picture of a woman who overcame enormous odds to be highly successful in her chosen career as an animal scientist, designing humane livestock facilities. Although autism can be a devastating diagnosis, Grandin's own words help readers understand why she says her autism adds a dimension to her life that she would not want to be without. The descriptions of the many people who knew her when she was a child and the ways they either helped or hindered her progress give a clear understanding of some of the obstacles in her path. Montgomery includes a thorough explanation of the disorder, helping readers to comprehend this atypical neuropathy. The lively, well-worded narrative is complemented by ample use of photographs and Grandin's complicated drawings of her inventions. For librarians who struggle to find well-written biographies of women, this is a must-buy.--Wendy Smith-D'Arezzo, Loyola College, Baltimore, MD

-NYPL 100 Titles for Reading & Sharing, 2012

"A well written, admiring and thought-provoking portrait."—Kirkus

"Montgomery's book not only tells the powerful story of one amazing woman's life journey, but also has potential to help readers understand autistic people and animals."—Horn Book

"It isn't easy to describe how the mind of someone with autism works, but Montgomery's biography effectively breaks the disorder down for a younger audience while introducing the extraordinary life of activist Temple Grandin."—Booklist

"Lively, well-worded narrative...For librarians who struggle to find well-written biographies of women, this is a must-buy."—School Library Journal, starred review