Customer Reviews
Speaking For Those Who Usually Can't 
2007-10-28
Anyone who has any contact with an autistic child should read this book. For everyone else, it is an education about this dreadful condition that has become a household word. Temple is one of those very rare people who was clearly certified as autistic, but has broken out of her cage well enough to communicate to the rest of us the inner feelings of an autistic person. Essentially, it is an autobiography detailing her hypersensitivity, temper outbursts, anxiety attacks and inability to function as a social being. Through the efforts of her mother, loving teachers, structured environments and her own doggedness, she has emerged well enough to become an acclaimed professional animal scientist.
Very Engaging Reading 
2007-08-14
With the recent success of the novel "The Curious Incedent of the Dog and the Night Time" - a novel written from an autistic's point of view - we should remember that this book, "Emergence," was the first autobiography written by an autistic. Quite literally, it was Temple Grandin, more than any other person, who brought autism into the spotlight and gave us the "insider's perspective."
Before I go on, it should be noted that anyone reading this will be reading the story of a quite high-functioning autistic. Sadly, the majority of those diagnosed with full-blown autism will be worse off than she (even if they can use language), and that, after having seen her live a few times, I question whether she would have fit the diagnosis of Asperger's syndrome (very mild autism) better than "autism."
That being said, this woman's life was obviously no walk in the park. Even if her autism is mild, this story is one of humungous triumph over towering obstacles. She recalls, for instance, how it was not until her elementary years that she was really able to use speech. Her middle school years are rushed over because, she says, they are simply too painful to recount. (She tells us that other students used to taunt her by calling her "tape recorder" because she would endlessly repeat phrases because she liked their sound. She tells us of her obsession, starting in high school, with walking through doors and her creation of a "squeeze chute" which would allow her to experience physical pressure against her skin in a way that would not overwhelm her senses.
Sound unconventional? Welcome to the world of autism. Autism, for those who don't know, is a developmental disorder that affects one's sensory intake (often, sounds, smells, and tactile sensation can be overwhelming), expressive abillty (having trouble verbalizing thoughts and feelings), and impairing social "instincs" (those unwritten rules "neurotypicals" take for granted. Grandin's story is one of learning to deal with, and adjust to, all three of these impairments enough to function in the world as a "normal" person, which is something that, sadly, many autistics can never quite do.
But Grandin is a firm believer that autism can be "cured" (the quotation marks are because I think she means "dealt with" or "adjusted to fit the world," rather than "cured." Towards that end, the introduction and epilogue of the book are deveoted to lessons on how to deal with autism which can be extrapolated from the book.
Another reviewer mentioned that this is a book that can be read by teenager and adult alike. This is one of its greatest assets. Autistics, when they use language, tend to use very literal and direct language (autistics have trouble with things like metaphor). This book is concise, to the point, written in very simple language, and would be easily aceesible to a teenage. As I teach teenagers, some with autism, I am just waiting for the chance to have some of my autistic and Asperger's kids read this book, because I know they will be able to draw much inspiration from it.
If you are at all concerned about autism, Asperger's syndrome, and how the autistic thinks, this is a must read. Grandin is candid about her failures and her sucesses. This is a book that will entertain, educate, and inspire you.
Good book 2007-05-14
Good book if you are looking for a view on autism from someone who has had it.
Loved It 2006-08-31
I really liked the book. It offers great insights into the life of autistic children.
beuatiful 2006-07-05
an illumination of the mind and world of an autistic person which gives the reader an insight into a different, yet constructive way of seeing and being in this world...and the amazing contributions that can be made
beuatiful 2006-07-05
Temple Grandin's groundbreaking book chronicles the remarkable and inspiring true story of how she overcame autism-with a new introduction. Temple Grandin was diagnosed with autism at the age of three. An intelligent child with a thirst for knowledge, but unable to properly express herself or control her behavior, Temple struggled through grade school. Eventually moved from a 'normal' school to an educational program for autistic children, she began to suffer 'nerve attacks.' Now Temple tells the story of how she went from a fear-gripped, autistic child to a successful professional and a world leader in her field. A chronicle of perseverance and courage, EMERGENCE gives new hope and insight into the tragedy of autism and the vast potential of the human spirit.
Insight! 2006-07-01
As the grandmother of a high functioning autistic child, I've learned some insight into how every day events affect my grandson. I'm anxious to read more of Temple's dealing with autism in her everyday life.
Getting a glimpse ... 2006-06-15
As the parent of a 5 yr old autistic child,
I read this book with great interest. It has
given me some insight as to what my child
MAY be experiencing (each autistic child is
unique). The author's experiences and trials
have given me ideas to consider as aides for
my daughter and confirmation about what I've
believed she needs in the way of structure.
The author is TRULY a remarkable person and
I am thankful to her for having the courage
and the thoughtfulness to share her experiences
with the public. I am also moved by the strength
and courage demonstrated by her mother through
the years; another remarkable woman.
I am excited to read the author's "Thinking
In Pictures" next!
must read 2006-06-13
this book is a must for anyone looking to understand the complex mind of autism.
it is more than a mere textbook. in addition to valuable information it also contains stories and first hand narratives.
i would consider it a must read for all physical and occupational therapists.
Seeing the world through their eyes. 2006-05-11
I am a teacher and respite care provider for children with special needs. Temple Grandin offers insight into the world of the children on the Autism spectrum. Reading about her experiences helps us better understand and treat the children we care for. I encourage anyone who interacts with children and adults on the Autism spectrum and those with sensory processing disorder to read this book and the many others written by Temple Grandin.
