Emergence: Labeled Autistic

Authors: Temple Grandin and Margaret M Scariano

First line: I remember the day I almost killed my mother and younger sister, Jean.

Why you should read this book: The renowned animal behaviorist's memoirs recount her arduous journey through autism to empathy, opening a window into the perceptual difficulties of an autistic child who craves affection she is unable to accept. Told with grace and good humor, the narrative is tied together by Grandin's quest for a device capable of inducing the sensations of safety and comfort, the controversial Squeeze Machine that became her life's work, her contribution to the world, and her salvation. An excellent resource for those seeking to understand the phenomenon of autism as well as those interested in the autobiography of a remarkable person triumphing over astonishing odds.

Why you shouldn't read this book: You're a militant vegan.