How to Build a Hug: Temple Grandin and Her Amazing Squeeze Machine

This is a true story of Dr. Temple Grandin, presently a professor of animal science, who struggled with hypersensitivities as a child and, in particular, experienced an aversion to hugs. Her story allows reader to gain insight into the world of autism and understand how Temple Grandin was able to overcome her dislike of close physical contact by inventing a hug machine, inspired by an apparatus she once saw used for animals at the farm. This work of literary non-fiction uses colourful language and illustrations to help young readers in Grade K–4 to understand the autism spectrum disorder and the experiences of people with special needs in general. The story could be used as a read-aloud in a primary classroom or as part of a literature circle. Temple Grandin’s invention could inspire students to design inventions of their own to help solve problems they perceive.