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.
