School Library Journal Review
K-Gr 2-Diagnosed at an early age with autism, Temple Grandin (b. 1947) grew up at a time when there was generally little care or regard for those like her. However, Grandin's mother was able to secure the therapies and education her daughter needed to thrive. ("She was 'Different, Not less,' they all finally agreed.") Grandin would eventually design animal husbandry techniques to more humanely treat livestock in the meat industry. Rhyming verse and appealing cartoon illustrations capture Grandin's spirit while providing an exciting, informative look at her remarkable life. Invaluable back matter contains a letter from Temple, fun facts, a time line accompanied by family photographs, and an insightful biography. Even the bookmaking pays tribute to its subject, with endpapers covered in adorable cartoon cattle. Reminiscent of Meghan McCarthy's quirky nonfiction, this is the first volume in a promising new series introducing readers to remarkable women in the sciences. VERDICT A fine addition to nonfiction -biography -collections.-Rebecca Gueorguiev, New York Public Library © Copyright 2017. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Kirkus Review
A picture-book biography in verse introduces Dr. Temple Grandin, a major spokesperson for autism spectrum disorder. The author employs easy, accessible language and simple rhyme to describe Grandin's life, including her original misdiagnosis, the doctors' advice to "send her away," her mother's advocacy, her learning to speak, the "new" diagnosis of autism, frustration with her classmates, her first visit to her aunt's farm that led to her career as an animal specialist, her understanding of her talents, and the importance of her visual memory. The narrative goes on to describe her high school teacher's support of her interest in science, her first invention (the "squeeze machine," a self-calming device based on close-quartered enclosures for livestock), her work in treating cattle humanely, her efforts within the autism community, and the public recognition of her unique talents. The author speaks directly and inclusively: "Being DIFFERENT might just / be what makes you so NEAT! / Don't let doubt hold you back, / not for one minute more. / STAND TALL, and like Temple, / MARCH RIGHT THROUGH THAT DOOR!" Nave-style pictures attractively accompany the text, and the backmatter ramps up the content: a letter from Grandin, information from a "chat" between the author and the scientist (written at a slightly higher reading level than the verse), an excellent illustrated timeline, an essay about Grandin for adults, and a bibliography that includes some video resources in addition to mostly adult-directed print resources. Aspects of Grandin's complex life have been simplified and the poetry is sometimes forced, but this is an effective, age-appropriate introduction to a remarkable person. (Picture book/biography. 6-9) Copyright Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Booklist Review
The life of Temple Grandin, animal behaviorist and autism spokesperson, is covered in this picture book in verse, with a message of perseverance and inspiration. Grandin's story begins in her childhood, and Mosca describes her autism by its traits before using the actual word, which might make it more accessible for readers. The theme of Grandin thinking in pictures carries through to her passion for science and livestock welfare. Though Grandin's work is simplified for the audience (her cattle-chute designs are spotlighted, though the text glosses over what exactly the invention was used for), overall she is portrayed as incredibly intelligent, persistent, and unique. While the rhythmic lines don't always scan, Mosca's admiration and enthusiasm for her subject shine through. Rieley's stylized, multimedia illustrations, rendered in geometric shapes and flat panes of bold color, capture how Grandin thinks in pictures, and in some instances demonstrates the scientific process. Fans of Andrea Beaty's Rosie Revere, Engineer (2013), or anyone who has struggled over feeling different, will appreciate this approachable biography of a inspiring scientist.--Linsenmeyer, Erin Copyright 2017 Booklist
