Review: The Girl Who Thought In Pictures: The Story of Dr. Temple Grandin

This is the story of a girl who was told she was different, whose parents were told to send her away, who was teased simply for being who she was. This is also the story of that same girl who became a champion for animals, a giant of science, and an inspiration to people all over the world, particularly for anyone who has ever been told they don't quite fit in.

The Girl Who Thought In Pictures is a brief biography of Mary Temple Grandin (known as Temple), written by Julia Finley Mosca, who spent many hours talking with Dr. Grandin.

The illustrations, by Daniel Rieley are insightful, reflecting the way in which the young Temple described her thinking - in pictures. Dr. Grandin also contributed personal photos which complement the illustrations and remind readers that Dr. Grandin is a real person.

As a child, Temple displayed behaviours and characteristics that differed from other children. Born in Boston, Massachusetts, USA, in 1947, at first these were incorrectly attributed to brain damage, but later recognised as part of autism. Whilst Temple's characteristics led to some difficulties, such as delayed speech, sensory challenges and struggles with managing her frustrations, they also led to a unique way of viewing the world.

When Temple went to live with relatives on a farm, after a difficult time at school in the city, she began to realise that she could see solutions in ways that others could not. And so began a love affair with science, inventions and discoveries. Since then, this quiet girl, has gone on to become an inventor, a respected Animal Scientist, a Professor (earning a Bachelor degree in Psychology, and a Master's and PhD in Animal Science),  and a world-wide public speaker!

The narrative is told in rhyme, covering key moments in Dr. Grandin's life, and younger children may appreciate the simple rhyming text. For older children, and anyone who seeks to understand more about this interesting person's life, there are additional sections at the back, including a letter from Dr. Grandin, Fun Facts, a timeline with significant dates, and more detailed biographical information.

This book is one of a series of books published by The Innovation Press, featuring amazing scientists.

Title: The Girl Who Thought In Pictures: The Story of Dr. Temple Grandin
Author: Julia Finley Mosca
Illustrator: Daniel Rieley
Publisher: The Innovation Press, $17.99
Publication Date: 5 March 2019
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781943147618
For ages: 4 - 8
Type: Picture book