Billions of Years, Amazing Changes: The Story of Evolution

Pringle, Laurence. Billions of Years, Amazing Changes: The Story of Evolution. Boyds Mills, 2011. 96pp. Lexile 1000.

Veteran nonfiction writer Laurence Pringle offers a clear, readable explanation of evolution and the evidence that backs it up.  He takes readers through the history of the theory, discussing Darwin’s role, geological and fossil discoveries, and the role of genetics and carbon dating.  The examples of natural selection, which are fascinating, include such timely topics as the fact that antibiotic-resistant bacteria are the result of evolution. Pringle stresses that the word theory in the context of “theory of evolution” means, not a “hunch or rough guess” but rather a "well-understood set of ideas supported by a tremendous amt of research and findings" (p. 42).  Excellent cut-paper artwork by Steve Jenkins and color photographs extend the text.  A glossary, bibliography, index, and lists of suggested books and websites complete this fine science book.

Reading Std #4: Interpret words and phrases as they are used in a text, including technical, connotative, and figurative meanings; analyze role of specific word choices.  Pringle is clear and unequivocal in his presentation of evolution as a basic aspect of science.  Have students consider his use of, and specific discussion of, the word “theory.”

Temple Grandin: How the Girl Who Loved Cows Embraced Autism and Changed the World

Montgomery, Sy. Temple Grandin: How the Girl Who Loved Cows Embraced Autism and Changed the World. 2012. Lexile 960.

This engaging biography is notable for being about a successful person who's autistic.  After overcoming many hurdles, Temple Grandin became a professor, a prominent consultant who designs more humane animal facilities, and an influential activist for animal welfare.  Montgomery, who clearly spent time with Grandin, uses a personal, conversational tone in relating Grandin's story.  She effectively conveys Grandin's personality and even describes her memento-filled home.  Sections alternate between a chronological account of Grandin's life and discussions of her current work, which include a few grim details about slaughterhouses and blood pits. Grandin has made her way in a male-dominated world area of work, while also also figuring out how to deal with aspects of her autism, some of which she believes have given her strengths. Sidebars add information about autism and a useful appendix offers "Temple Grandin's Advice for Kids on the Spectrum," meaning the autism spectrum, followed by a resource list and index. 

Website Tie-in: Grandin's 20-minute Ted talk gives a wonderful sense of her energetic personality.  She shows slides, discusses the advantages of different kinds of thinking that are characteristic of those on the autism spectrum, and talks about her work with animals.  She relates many of her comments to kids and her own younger years.

Reading Std #6: Assess how point of view or purpose shapes the content and style of a text.  Because Montgomery spent time with Grandin, visited her home, and talked to her friends and family, this book has a personal feel to it.  Have students look for specific evidence of Montgomery's point of view about her subject.  Is the biography even-handed?  Does she discuss what might be considered Grandin's weaknesses as well as her strengths?