Customer Reviews

Rescued by a Cow and a Squeeze: Temple Grandin

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Mary Carpenter's fascinating account of Temple Grandin's early life may be intended for children with learning disabilities. But it will make absorbing reading for all children. Every child will have experienced some of the discomfort of Temple's childhood, a childhood which Carpenter brings to life with vivid details. And what child could fail to be moved by the story of how Temple's personal antidote to autism, the squeeze machine, has improved the lives of the nation's millions of cows.

Temple Grandin became a famous engineer, inventor, and cow whisperer, both despite and because of her autism. In RESCUED BY A COW AND A SQUEEZE, Mary Carpenter tells the story of her unique life through stunning anecdote and lucid prose. This book offers a riveting introduction to biography for the young reader--reassuring and encouraging to kids who may themselves be challenged by a learning disability; consciousness-raising and empathy-building for the kids who are not. Meanwhile, any parent or teacher who has the opportunity to read RESCUED BY A COW AND A SQUEEZE will be charmed and amazed as well as informed, finishing the book thinking, "Who would ever have thought?!"

Mary Carpenter has written a book for children, but adults will find it equally fascinating. Temple Grandin's struggles are nearly incomprehensible, but her success is amazing on many levels. Hers is a celebration of what makes us unique. Her life illustrates that intelligence is not a straight line, not an IQ test, not acceptable versus unacceptable. Her brilliance is unique, as most who are outstandingly brilliant are unique. Carpenter's science background brings a solid depth to this book. It's a beautiful story told with grace and wonderful details.