Temple Grandin paints a picture of a young woman's perseverance and determination while struggling with the isolating challenges of autism at a time when it was still quite unknown. The film chronicles Temple's early diagnosis; her turbulent growth and development during her school years; the enduring support she received from her mother, aunt, and her science teacher; and her emergence as a woman with an innate sensitivity and understanding of animal behavior.

Based on the books "Emergence" by Temple Grandin and Margaret Scariano, and "Thinking in pictures" by Temple Grandin.