Ada and the Number-Crunching Machine

by Zoë Tucker, Rachel Katstaller (Illustrator)

This is Ada. Although she might look like an ordinary little girl, she’s about to change the world.

Augusta Ada Byron, better known as Ada Lovelace, is an inquisitive child. Like her clever mother, she loves solving problems—big problems, little problems, and tricky, complicated problems. Ada invents crazy contraptions and reads all the books in the library of her father, the poet Lord Byron; but most of all she loves to solve mathematical problems. Together with her teacher, the mathematician Charles Babbage, Ada invents the world’s first computer program. Her achievements made her a pioneer for women in the sciences.

Zoë Tucker’s words capture the adventurous life of Ada succinctly, and debut picture book illustrator Rachel Katstaller’s art infuses Victorian London with humor.

"An impressively balanced mix of engaging description and important facts with a quick explanation of the gender politics of the time and information about Ada's legacy...Inspiring, feminist, and informative in equal parts." –Kirkus Reviews

Genres: Picture Books, Biography, History, Nonfiction, Childrens, Science, Feminism

32 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2019

About the author

Zoë Tucker is passionate about picture books. Working as an art director and designer, she has the opportunity to work with authors, artists, and publishers from all over the world. Zoë lives and works on the south coast of England with her husband, Adam, and a cat called Murray. She is the author of many children's books, including Greta and the Giants and Ada and the Number-Crunching Machine.

Reviews

[Jon Nakapalau · Rating 5 out of 5]

This interesting book introduces small children to the amazing accomplishments of Ada Lovelace - the woman who invented computer programming! Great for parents focusing on STEM material, this book is sure to appeal to curious boys/girls who may be starting to show an early interest in computer programing.

[Richard · Rating 4 out of 5]

So many years after the incredible life of Ada Lovelace it seems strange that she is remembered by some and not everyone, despite her achievements and inventive mind.
Happily this book adds and subtracts nothing from her brief life in 19th Britain by tagging on the Number Crunching Machine.
It seems strange that for so long in a mighty empire like Britain oversaw, girls and women were considered less capable to have minds filled with knowledge. Consequently their education was ignored and they were not expected to add to society in terms of discovery and invention.
The child Ada should be an inspiration to children, especially girls, who in some societies are still held back and denied a complete education.
Ada was fortunate that her parents were influential and her Mother was determined that if she could not attend school she would be taught at home.
That she has access to books and great scholars to lead and guide her enabled her to reach her potential and somewhat more. Certainly, life as we enjoy it today has been enhanced by her studies, contributions and abilities.
This book will encourage children to read, be delighted that history is their past and that the future is theirs to discover.
Don’t think I was ever taught about Ada in all my educational years.

It is good that a child’s book can teach a grown up.

Enjoy. Marvel at the unique illustrations and story telling style that makes this a memorable book. Learn about a character no-one should forget. Together we should ensure in the 21st century that education is for all, a right for all children.

[Etienne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting book about a not-so-well know inventor! A small biography for children that is very well illustrated. I already said it but I love those children books that get kids to learn about interesting people and get inspired by what they did!

[Danielle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ada Lovelace and the Number-Crunching Machine tells the story of an incredible woman. Ada Lovelace was a pioneer in the computer industry before computers even existed. This book introduces her to a generation of children who have never known life without a computer in their pocket. The illustrations are whimsical and the story of Ada's life can inspire little girls everywhere to pursue STEM careers. I highly reccomend this book.
Thank you to Netgalley and NorthSouth books for an advance reader copy in exchange for an impartial review.

[La Coccinelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is one of the stronger kids' biographies about Ada Lovelace I've read. It gives a brief biographical sketch in the main text, including her association with Charles Babbage. The biographical notes at the end, though, I think are much more clear. The main text and pictures sort of imply that Ada and Babbage built the Analytical Engine (it was never built in its entirety). The little note at the end talks more about what Ada actually did with her code and translations, so it's a good idea to read that part of the book, too!

The illustrations are of a style that I'm not always a fan of. But here, they kind of work. Although, I was a bit confused by the crow that appears throughout; is it supposed to represent a fascination with bird flight... or did she actually have a pet crow?

Overall, this is a nice picture-book biography about a pioneering woman. Strong endnotes add more interest. I would recommend this book to kids interested in science or computers.

Thank you to NetGalley and NorthSouth Books for providing a digital ARC.

[Ioanna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

A true and empowering figure gives life to this book, helping us inspire the young readers in our lives. This is the story of Ada Lovelace, a woman that, due to the circumstances of her era, didn't have the luxury to go to school, but who managed to get educated nonetheless. The result? Ada Lovelace is the person behind the first notion of a computer program!

The story is simple enough for children to understand, yet very engaging, and accompanied by pleasant illustrations. Highly recommended for young readers.

[Alisha · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a short and cute read designed for little kids, probably to be read to them by an adult who hopes they will take an interest in math, science, history, biography, computers, or all of the above.

An adult who knows the Ada Lovelace story well might notice that it rather overstates and oversimplifies the case when it says that she "changed the world" with her mathematical footnotes. It would be more accurate to say that she imagined the change that might someday be possible. Still, kudos for introducing kids to a less well-known historical figure, especially a 19th century woman with some complicated emotional baggage but a first-class brain.

Thanks to NorthSouth Books and NetGalley for the advance review copy.

[Mimi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute introduction of Ada Lovelace to kids. The book felt a little bit too short, though. Nice, modern style of illustrations.

I received a copy through Netgalley, which did not alter my opinion on this books.

[Alicia Bayer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this with my 7 year old daughter last night and we both loved it. We both agree it's a five star book. The book tells the tale of little Ada Lovelace, who grew up in a time when girls didn't go to school but was lucky enough to have parents who brought in tutors and gave her lots of books to read (Ada and her mom both read every book in the library, it notes), and who eventually helped create the first prototype of a computer a hundred years before we had computers.

The book reminded me a lot of The Boy Who Loved Math: The Improbable Life of Paul Erdos. Both books start their biographies with the subjects' childhoods and both books tell of the characters' quirks and oddities, making personality traits that could be seen as embarrassments or bad things into just likeable parts of who they were (Paul didn't even cut his own meat until adulthood and throughout his life pretty much just relied on those around him to do the adulting). Ada could be cranky like her father (poet Lord Byron). Nobody is presented as perfect little cookie cutters.

The illustrations here are fun, looking like bits of graph paper and such helped create them. The story was just the right length, giving information to really get to know the character but not so much that younger children would get bored and glassy eyed.

There's a high chance that I'll buy this one for our own library. Delightful in every way.

My rating system:
1 = hated it
2 = it was okay
3 = liked it
4 = really liked it
5 = love it, plan to purchase, and/or would buy it again if it was lost

I read a temporary digital ARC of the book for the purpose of review.

[Bookish Devil · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ada Lovelace. I knew the name sounded familiar and that it was associated with technology and stuff but I wasn't able to make a meaningful connection.

Once I got absorbed into the story, I was pleasantly surprised when I learnt that she was the World's first computer programmer. Her contributions to the mathematical/programming field were fundamental in the conceptualization of the computers we use today.

The Illustrations were very neat and crisp. The story was filled with so many interesting facts and as a 22-year-old, I found myself flipping the pages earnestly. Her life story was narrated in a concise way - neither too lengthy nor too short. On completion of the book, any child reading it would have a clear idea about who Ada Lovelace was and how vital her contributions turned out to be despite the fact the girls of her age weren't allowed to attend school. This clearly displays the massive potential that women possess. Her success story would serve as an inspiration for all the little girls out there and encourage them to come up with new ideas and inventions that could possibly change the world for the better.

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ada and the Number-Crunching Machine by Zoë Tucker and Rachel Katstaller is a wonderful new introduction to the life of Ada Lovelace.

Once a little-known figure, Ada Lovelace has become well-known, admired, and beloved for her work, especially her work as the world's first computer programmer. This book uses child-friendly language to introduce readers of all ages to Ada's life and a few of her many accomplishments.

The illustrations are adorable, and I think they help bring Ada to life, whether it is when we're looking at how similar she is to her parents, to the mechanical genius of her work, to the much-deserved admiration she receives now. I especially liked how the additional facts of her life were laid out on graph paper, which I thought was a nice visual touch.

I would definitely recommend this for those looking for a child-friendly introduction to Ada Lovelace's life and works. It makes for a great place to start.

[Bridget · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a non-fiction book about the life of Ada Lovelace.

Ada’s mum likes maths and her dad loves poetry. Encouraged by her mum, Ada too, develops a liking for maths and problem-solving. Much later, she meets inventor, Charles Babbage and they work together developing a machine that led to the computer as we know it today.

The wonderful illustrations in Ada and the Number-Crunching Machine by Rachel Katstaller really complement the text and I am sure both adults and small children will delight in this book as much as I did!

I received a complimentary copy of this novel from North South Books via NetGalley at my request, and this review is my own unbiased opinion.

[Anneke Alnatour · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great biography of Ada Lovelace for kids! Loved the illustrations, with some great information in the back of the book too.

I learned some new things, and so did everybody else in my family. Such a great picture books on non fiction books available these days!

[Elle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is Ada.

Ada Lovelace Day will be celebrated internationally on October 8 of this year to honor the achievements of women in the fields of science, technology, engineering and maths.

I admit that prior to reading this book, I didn't even know who Ada Lovelace was. And it seems so strange to me now (and quite embarrassing, too) that I rely so much on a machine without really knowing or even once taking an interest in its origins and the brilliant minds that worked together to bring about its earliest form.

For it was through Ada and her mentor/friend Charles Babbage's collaborative efforts, boundless curiosities, and pioneering vision that we are able to enjoy the astounding benefits of computers today. Their story has definitely piqued my interest and made me more appreciative of the number-crunching machines in my life.

I also really loved that much emphasis was given to the role that Ada's parents played in her life and education, which makes this book such a perfect reading experience to share between children and the adults who care for them. Every kid has a curious mind. But a curious kid will only ever be a curious kid without people to support and guide them towards great things.
;
Ada followed her bliss. Her parents guided her along the way. And look where that got her. ^^

I received a digital review copy of this book from NetGalley.

[Andrea Pole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ada and the Number-Crunching Machine by Zoe Tucker tells the remarkable true story of a young girl who, without any formal education, created the world's first computer program.

Ada Lovelace, the daughter of Lord Byron, had always been fascinated by the inner workings of machines. Incredibly, without any training beyond her voracious reading and curiosity, she was able to achieve what was previously unfathomable, adding to Charles Babbage's proposal of an analytical engine, and laying the foundation for the modern computer.

This is an incredibly motivating story that is told in such a way that it is accessible, educational, and entertaining for even the youngest of children. Beautifully illustrated and with such an inspiring message, particularly for young girls, this book should be a mainstay on every school library shelf.

Many thanks to NetGalley and North South Books Inc. for this informative and delightful ARC.

[Sarah Dressler · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a quick little read, packed full of great STEM history along with Ada Lovelace carrying the way as a strong female character. While reading this with my son and daughter, both of whom love STEM, they were highly intrigued to learn more about Ada’s background, her literary famous father (which my English teacher’s heart happily taught them more!), as well as the time period! It’s beautiful how a scientific-based text opened so many conversations with my children about Ada’s connections and reach beyond technology and our world today. I highly recommend this text to anyone with children that love to read and are interested in learning more about strong females in STEM. I cannot wait until this releases so my children and my classroom can have a copy!

[April Gray · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall, a lovely introduction to a pioneering woman, geared toward younger children. The illustrations are fun, and express Ada's spirit well. There are biographical details sprinkled throughout the text, with more information included at the end of the book. While many details of her life weren't appropriate for children, certain things could've been mentioned and weren't, such as her childhood and later illnesses, her marriage and children, and her title. I did appreciate the emphasis on her education, which most girls didn't receive in those days. A great addition to any young child's book collection.

[Octopodey · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a quick, enjoyable, kid-appropriate biography of Ada Lovelace, with a hilariously dry aside regarding the difficulty of dealing with her father Lord Byron and factual commentary explaining the privilege Ada Lovelace had compared to most girls in her time and of course the misconceptions regarding women's unsuitability for involvement in the sciences. It's a good read, simple without being simplistic, and I think appropriate for kids without being dumbed-down. I also enjoyed the artwork, and that is something I'm generally fairly picky about.

I received a free copy of the ebook from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Dianoudine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I learned a lot about Ada Lovelace and I felt very strongly for her parents and the education she received. I loved that she was let free to read and learn anything she wanted and think on her own.
I would love to get a paper version of this book to read to my daughters, so they know they can be smart and curious and overcome any glass ceiling people will try to put on their way.
Girls are incredible! Thank you Ms Tucker for this beautiful and inspiring book!
I read an English, Kindle version of this book. Well it's my second children book on a Kindle and it's a mess, children book need to be read with double pages.
I received a copy of the book in exchange for an earnest review.

[Tiana Hadnt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ada Lovelace loves solving problems. She’s quick, clever, inventive, and imaginative. She also loves to read. Unable to receive a good education due to being female, she nonetheless beats the odds, and becomes one of the most famous inventors, male or female, in history. This is a very nice children’s biography. It’s well written, understandable, and the illustrations are beautiful. It will especially be encouraging to girls who think that they shouldn’t be interested math and inventing because of their gender. A great example.

Thanks to Netgalley and NorthSouth books for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Anca · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love books that make me think about their subject days or weeks after having finished them. Although a children's book, it made me want to look for more information about Ada and the number-crunching machine she helped invent. This is the kind of book I prefer to buy for my children or give as gifts to others.
We have read about Ada's story in another book, but I find this one better. I also liked the illustrations; for a small child, the captivating pictures are a must.
Thank you to Net Galley for providing me with an e-book copy in exchange for my honest review!

[Sofia Lemons · Rating 5 out of 5]

Adorable, inspiring book for kids about a true innovator! The illustrations are very cute and the text is clear for even little kids about a pretty complex topic. The translation uses slightly different words than expected at a few points, but in a clear way that might expand kids' vocabulary. Has the approval of both a 1 year old and a 5 year old, both of whom now demand "Ada book" nightly. The 5 year old agrees with Ada that not going to school would be very boring!

[Ryan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is probably one of my favorite picture books on Ada Lovelace. It was just the perfect amount of information for picture book format without being too glossy, or too dumbed down. This title hit on facts others leave out and also points out that she didn’t do all on her own. I love this book and can not wait to add it to my library collection.
#LitsyAtoZchildrens

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

A quick, simplified look at Ada Lovelace and her work with Charles Babage on the Analytical Engine. It's a great book to teach kids about a woman in science who has frequently been overlooked. It's enough to spark interest without an overwhelming amount of information. The illustrations that go along with it are very cute.

[Tina Izguerra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fabulous book. Zoë Tucker I believe may have been the first person to write a children's book about Ada. The story was captivating, and the illustrations were gorgeous. Ada's story is a fantastic one to read to young girls, especially when we so direly need more women in computer science. Excellent read, beautifully written, and something I must have on my shelf for my daughter!

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've read many picture book about Ada Lovelace. However, this is one of the best.

[Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was adorable! It gave information on Ada and explained her love of learning in a neat and lively way. I enjoyed the artwork in this book so much and the last blurbs about her and Charles Babbage were neat.

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a good one to have in a younger classroom for girls to be encouraged to think about STEM activities being for them too, not only boys can build computers & be interested in maths.

The illustrations were beautiful too.

[Wayne McCoy · Rating 3 out of 5]

'Ada and the Number-Crunching Machine' with words by Zoe Tucker and art by Rachel Katstaller is a picture book about a young girl who liked inventing things.

The book shows us Ada Lovelace as a young girl, who liked things normal children like, plus numbers and solving problems. Since she was female in a time when girls weren't allowed to go to school, she had to find education another way. One of Ada's friends had an idea for a new machine and Ada thought of a way to program it. It was considered the first computer.

The book finishes by telling more about Ada Lovelace and how she continues to inspire people. There is even a programming language named after her.

The story is fine and written well. The illustrations were cute too. I like the supplemental material included.

I received a review copy of this ebook from North South Books Inc. and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.

[Theediscerning · Rating 3 out of 5]

Three and a half stars.

A reasonable first picture book, and one with a perfectly decent subject. I liked the artwork, too – the colour scheme, and the seemingly quick and easy way of having Ada Lovelace always wear a dress made of mathematical paper, like the maths books in school. It did seem to me, however, that the text was too much context – showing the differences between Ada's world and ours, and then having to splurge the actual story of her work with Babbage on to one text-heavy page. Yes, we need to see her character for the lesson it gives everyone today, about the benefit of learning and of not thinking success is out of limits, but having it given us at the rate of one sentence per spread, then ending up so wordy, felt to me that things were off-balance.