School Library Journal

In this series, each book begins with a list of “Words to Know,” defining the vocabulary before it is encountered within the text. A full-page photo introduces a concept like microprocessors, sequencing, or data processing, and then the facing page briefly explains the concept. Individuals in the photos are a mix of genders and racial backgrounds, often doing an everyday activity that relates to the concept being discussed. Comparing networks to spiderwebs or data storage to file cabinets makes the information more approachable. At the end of each book, a suggested activity applies what has been learned, such as conducting a hunt to find identifiable computers around the house. Text boxes offer additional “Fast Facts.” The Algorithms title makes especially good comparisons to activities students will understand. With its age-appropriate introduction to terms and ideas, this is a good first purchase or addition to your computer science section.