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Book Review of Animals in Translation: Using the Mysteries of Autism to Decode Animal Behavior

Animals in Translation: Using the Mysteries of Autism to Decode Animal Behavior
kera108 avatar reviewed on + 54 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2


This is an insider's view that offers real perspective on the mysteries of autism (at least as she experiences it). Grandin's understanding of animal psychology enables her to advise on slaughterhouse management and she is one of the world's premier designers of such facilities. But as an animal lover I take issue with Candace Pert's assertion that animal lovers will be "thoroughly charmed" by this book. While the author's personal story brings valued insights, this is mostly a book with lots of explanations and theory on animal behavior and how to extrapolate that to human behavior and autism. It's a valuable read in behavioral science, but it doesn't touch the deeper questions of animal sentience or the inherent ills (and associated social ramifications) of large scale animal production and slaughter.