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

 

Bibliography

Montgomery, S. (2012). Temple Grandin: How the girl who loved cows embraced autism and changed the world. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.

ISBN: 978-0547443157

Plot Summary

From the beginning, Temple Grandin was different. The moment she was born, her parents knew that she was not like other kids. After lots of questioning, her mother was finally told that Temple has autism.

Her mother was her biggest advocate and found anything and everything that would mold Temple into who she is today.

Today, Dr. Temple Grandin is a scientist and professor of animal science at Colorado State University. She revolutionized the livestock industry. As an advocate for autism, Temple uses her experience as an example of the unique contributions that autistic people can make.

This biography, complete with Temple’s personal photos, takes us inside her extraordinary mind and opens the door to a broader understanding of autism.

Critical Analysis

I think the book would benefit from a clearer explanation at the start that autism presents differently in every individual. Temple Grandin is one autistic person, and what works for her may not work for others. The book does an excellent job showing readers that neurodivergence can be a source of strength rather than a deficit. The story avoids pity or overly romanticized portrayals of autism. Instead, Montgomery grounds the narrative in Temple’s own voice through interviews and direct quotes, which adds authenticity and respect.

In the book, we are able to see how the world is slowly changing to meet the needs of neurodiverse people.  Montgomery shows the barriers Temple faced. There was little to nothing known about autism, lack of inclusive schooling, gender bias in science, and animal cruelty in livestock industries. By showing these systemic challenges alongside Grandin’s determination, the author helps readers recognize both the obstacles and the progress.

What makes this book great for young adult readers is that it mixes biography with scientific explanations and full-color photos. The book breaks down topics like sensory processing, humane animal handling, and industrial agriculture. It is written in a simple way so that hopefully the reader will understand if they were to see it with anyone in real life. 

While the story was short, the topic held my attention. Initially, I thought it would be a difficult topic to explain or read in a classroom. However, with the acceptance of being different becoming increasingly real, this book would be an amazing addition to any classroom.  It encourages empathy, curiosity, and a deeper understanding of neurodiversity.

Review Excerpts

• "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

Awards and Recognitions

• Notable Children's Books

• Association for Library Service to Children

• NSTA-CBC Outstanding Science Trade Book

• National Science Teachers Association

• Notable Children's Recordings

• Association for Library Service to Children

Connections

Turn this into a STEM project. Have students research humane livestock-handling systems. Then build simple models (cardboard corrals, maze designs, calming spaces). This can be done for any animal; it does not need to be about cattle.