How Do Computers Follow Instructions?: A Book About Programming

by J.T. Liso, Srimalie Bassani (Illustrations)

Have you ever wondered how computers follow instructions so well? Or how they do math so quickly? In the How Do series, readers are invited to guess and then explore the science behind the right answers. Basic principles of coding, including variables, binary code, loops, programming languages, and more, are explored in this newest engaging addition to the How Do series. About the How Do These visually appealing STEM titles for inquisitive readers and young science enthusiasts, are fully illustrated nonfiction picture books that are a great introduction to various STEM topics. Each title includes facts and figures, simple diagrams and hilarious illustrations and is written in a question-and-answer format to encourage readers to ask questions and guess the answers before exploring the science behind the correct answers.

Genres: Nonfiction, Coding, Technology

32 pages, Hardcover

Published November 5, 2019

Reviews

[Barbara · Rating 3 out of 5]

Although most of us become easily annoyed when our Internet connection doesn't work or lags or when our computers don't do what we want them to do, computers can easily do math faster than humans can. Relying on a question and answer approach with some absurd answers [using a calculator or flipping a coin, for instance], the book provides easy-to-understand explanations for how computers remember information, do math quickly or use logic statements. The information is accompanied by kid-friendly illustrations, and there is a glossary of terms. Additionally, to tie all the pieces together and make all this relevant, there are four pages that describe and show computer programming in action through TV, vending machines, cell phones, and laptop computers among others. This is a useful introduction to the topic.

[Aimee M · Rating 3 out of 5]

It tries to make the language child-friendly, but it's still a bit too advanced in places.

[Elisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I knew nothing about computers but this book was very approachable and helpful!

[Kimberly Wright Oelkers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you! This book is full of great ideas for instructing my elementary school students in Computer Science.