The Wide World of Coding

February 1, 2020
A human-centered look at programming. Focusing more on the conceptual side of programming--how to think like a programmer as opposed to explaining how to write in specific codes--science writer Connor-Smith (Living With Panic Disorder, 2018, etc.) illustrates her points with punchy, efficient anecdotes about the real-world applications and occurrences of the various ideas she presents instead of getting bogged down in theory. Early chapters cover the various steps that creating a program requires (with emphases on the amount of design that can be done on paper and on troubleshooting) followed by an overview of programming language (from a development and function viewpoint) and thorough-yet-succinct algorithm coverage. But it's in the second half of the book where Connor-Smith's psychology background shines, in chapters covering good versus bad design (and the manipulative psychology behind addictive programming and why companies use it), a wonderfully timely chapter on ethics in the digital realm, and a chapter detailing both why computer science as a field lacks diversity and how--through specific examples--increasing diversity improves outcomes for users and programs alike. The final chapter highlights tech areas with exciting and sometimes scary developments happening now--the text doesn't shy away from the dark sides of technology but avoids fearmongering--encouraging readers to jump into the world of coding. This attractive, engaging volume is a must-have for every school library. (answer key, timeline, glossary, source notes, selected bibliography, further reading, index, photo credits) (Nonfiction. 12-adult)

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April 1, 2020

Gr 7 Up-In the first few chapters, the author provides a succinct introduction to the field of computer programming. Readers learn about famous software developers, the types of jobs within the field, training and education required, and salaries. The text then describes specific types of programming languages and explains the process of computer programming using specific information and real-world examples. Balanced coverage is provided with the inclusion of topics such as the ethics associated with software development and the need for representation of women and people of color in the field. Graphs, charts, and images aid readers' comprehension. The activities throughout the text correspond with the spotlighted topic and provide a practical understanding of how people use the logic and skills behind coding in everyday life. An answer key is provided. The addition of a time line of major events in coding, a glossary, source notes, a bibliography, recommendations for further reading, and an index make this book useful for research. VERDICT A recommended purchase for libraries serving middle and high school students, especially ones with a focus on computer science, engineering, and technology.-Erica Thorsen, Albemarle High School, VA

Copyright 2020 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

March 15, 2020
Grades 8-11 This book emphasizes that anyone, regardless of their age or education, can be a coder. Instead of focusing on programming languages, it explains how coders think and design programs, providing insight into games such as Tampon Run, which works to erase the stigma of menstruation, and life-changing apps, like one that monitors child malnutrition in Guatemala. The stages of software development?gathering requirements, design, coding, testing, deployment, and maintenance?are covered. Jobs that don't require writing code are also mentioned, as are social and ethical issues, like app addition and search engines that sell personal data or misuse code. The author touches on the field's lack of diversity, adding, Diversity in tech leads to better code. Useful computational-thinking activities for readers are found throughout, with answers provided in the back, along with color photos, glossy pages, a time line, glossary, source notes, bibliography, further information, and index. This useful resource is handy for young people interested in knowing the range of software-development careers.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2020, American Library Association.)