Julia Finley Mosca

A charming book about an inspiring figure, it's written in rhyming verse and illustrated with colorful collage and texture. While the message of persevering and embracing those things that make you special or unique is not subtle, the rhyming is enjoyable and adds to this easy read. After reading Sy Montgomery's biography, I was happy to read anther work about the amazing Dr. Temple Grandin.

She was "Different, not less" they all finally agreed.
Although easy and upbeat, the book does not show more avoid challenging times in Temple Grandin's life such as the teasing, doors closing, or even her expulsion from school. It's a thorough read, offering short and sweet ways to understand differences. It is a longer easy book with few words, but many illustrations and messages. For anyone wanting to learn more there is a bibliography included and an afterward with more information about episodes depicted in the book as well as information about her life.

No one really GOT Temple,
but well, then again...

The truth of it was,
Temple didn't get THEM.

A wonderful biography to have available so that more people can learn about Dr. Temple Grandin earlier. show less

I've read everything about and by Dr. Grandin that I've found. I don't have high hopes for this, but if it reaches an audience that otherwise would not learn about her, yay.
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Turns out, it's pretty good. I'm not crazy about the rhyme, but, again, maybe that will help new people find out about this amazing hero. Includes generous back matter.

This book explored the life, challenges, and triumphs of Temple Grandin. It shows how people with Autism might act or perceive the world, and it gives positive, strength-based perspectives of neurodivergence to its readers.
This would be a great book to incorporate into the classroom that can introduce students to a wider variety of abilities and thought processes. It would be appropriate mostly for K-3rd grade, and would work best if it's not the ONLY neurodivergent book/disability that is show more discussed in the classroom setting since I would like all students to be represented. show less

A Girl with a Mind for Math is a wonderful story about persistence and determination despite having roadblocks at every turn. Raye Montague had dreams of becoming an engineer since the moment she laid eyes on her first ship. Unfortunately, Raye was growing up during a time when engineering was not a viable option for black women. Raye had the support of her mother and she was determined to succeed. When the schools she attended were not adequate, she took initiative and taught herself. show more Eventually, she got a position at a facility that designed submarines. This position led to the opportunities that allowed her dreams to come true. Her path was not easy, she faced racism and sexism often and did not always get the credit she deserved. In spite of all of the obstacles, Raye never quit! The Author includes several pages in the back that expand on the story including “Facts and Tidbits from an Author’s Chat with Raye!”, a timeline complete with pictures and illustrations, and an “About Raye Montague” section. This book is part of the Amazing Scientist Series which is perfect for highlighting women who have made huge impacts in the STEM world. show less