April 1, 2019
Grades 3-5 It's easy to lose sight of the big picture when thinking about coding, but this volume in the Coding series (4 titles) successfully places it within the context of the larger world. Using accessible language, Hulick explains what coding is and ways it can be used to create helpful programs for tasks such as locating directions or instructing robots to perform dangerous or repetitive work. The text introduces the concepts of data collection, smart systems, the Internet of Things, and artificial intelligence, in addition to pointing out potential drawbacks (hacking and cybercrime) and future benefits (safer medical treatments) of these technologies. The book's five short chapters are well organized and frequently use informative digital illustrations or infographics, and a Coding in Action spread takes the topic to a deeper level. Reading-comprehension questions conclude.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2019, American Library Association.)