Computer Decoder: Dorothy Vaughan, Computer Scientist
Description
A full-color picture book biography about Dorothy Vaughan, one of NASA's first African American managers and one of the groundbreakers on the front line of electronic computing--includes hands-on STEM activities for an introduction to coding.
Dorothy Vaughan loved things that made sense--especially numbers! In Computer Decoder: Dorothy Vaughan, Computer Scientist, elementary-aged children follow Dorothy's journey from math teacher to human computer and beyond, a journey made difficult because she was an African American woman working during a time of segregation. Dorothy worked incredibly hard to meet the challenges that greeted her at every turn and rose to the level of supervisor, the first black supervisor in the history of her company! But another challenge awaited when a mechanical computer threatened to replace the teams of human computers. How will Dorothy figure out this problem?
- In the Picture Book Biography series, children encounter real-life characters who are thrilled to learn and experiment, eager to make a difference, and excited about collaborating with team members.
- Age-appropriate vocabulary, detailed illustrations, a timeline, simple STEM projects, such as coding a name on a bracelet, and a glossary all support foundational learning for kids ages 5 to 8.
- Perfect for beginner readers or as a read aloud nonfiction picture book
About Picture Book Biography books and Nomad Press
Computer Decoder is part of a set of four books in the Picture Book Biography series that introduces pioneers of science to young children and makes career connections in different STEM fields. The other titles in this series include Fossil Huntress: Mary Leakey, Paleontologist; Human Computer: Mary Jackson, Engineer; and Space Adventurer: Bonnie Dunbar, Astronaut.
Nomad Press books in the Picture Book Biography series bring real-world figures to life through fun, engaging narratives paired with dynamic, brightly colored illustrations and quick activities that reinforce foundational learning. Elementary-aged children are encouraged to expand their perceptions of the roles of scientist, artist, explorer, and innovator by meeting women, people of color, and other minorities in the profession. Nomad's unique approach simultaneously grounds kids in factual knowledge while allowing them the space to be curious, creative, and critical thinkers.
All books are leveled for Guided Reading level and Lexile and align with Common Core State Standards and National Curriculum Standards for Social Studies. All titles are available in paperback, hardcover, and ebook formats.
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About the Author
Andi Diehn is a writer and editor with an MFA in Creative Writing from Vermont College. She is the author of the Picture Book Science series, Shakespeare: Investigate the Bard's Influence on Today's World, Technology: Cool Women Who Code, and Explore Poetry!, all from Nomad Press. She lives in Enfield, New Hampshire, with her family.
Katie Mazeika is an illustrator with a focus in children's publishing. She loves creating illustrations with a strong narrative that are filled with color and texture. Her illustrations are primarily done in Photoshop. Katie is a member of the SCBWI.
Reviews
Forces: Physical Science for Kids
Booklist Starred Review
" Forces , despite its down-to-earth scientific grounding, manages to do the nearly impossible. Diehn brings gravity, magnetism, push-pull forces, and friction to life in everyday contexts, without a hint of schoolroom jargon. Discussion of the forces arises naturally by inquiring what happens in a variety of situations. Shululu's illustrations add to the fun, giving the book a storybook quality. Children, parents, and teachers alike can enjoy learning the charming, often funny, relatable, and accessible science within this Picture Book Science series (4 titles) offering."
School Library Journal Series Made Simple
"Four introductory volumes to the lives of prominent women of math and science. The reader learns about how they entered their fields, their work, and the challenges they faced. The biographies of Dorothy Vaughn and Mary Jackson also reveal their struggles with segregation at NASA. The text is straightforward and focuses strictly on their careers. Time lines in the back fill in gaps for the reader whose curiosity is piqued. Colorful illustrations nicely complement the narrative. VERDICT: Interesting takes on important women should appeal to both browsers and report writers."
