7 superb children's books about technology

Published on: 13 August 2024

North and the Only One author Vashti Hardy recommends a mix of fiction and non-fiction about tech that will keep children reading.

I grew up at a time when computers were just emerging in homes, and my fascination for tech started at nine years old when I wrote some (very basic) code on a Commodore 64 to make patterns on a screen. Since then, I've loved both factual and fantasy stories based around the STEM subjects.

With the acceleration of technology, and invention reaching heights we can barely keep up with, especially with advances in AI, the world of tech is an enthralling and ever-changing space, and there's no better place to learn about, explore, speculate, and pose the big questions surrounding it than in children's books. I hope you enjoy my recommendations.

1. The History of the Computer, written and illustrated by Rachel Ignotofsky

This is a super, factual book with comprehensive information about the history of computers presented in a fun and engaging way. It's well-researched and there are lots of great details. Children can find out about the inner workings of a computer, robots, AI, and lots of other tech. It acknowledges the contributions of a varied backlist of people, all with great illustrations to complement the text. It's perfect for anyone with an interest in computers and gaming, and children who are fascinated by how things work.

2. Ada Lovelace (Little People, Big Dreams series) by Maria Isabel, illustrated by Sanchez Vegara

Ada Lovelace was one of the inspirations behind North and the Only One, my recent dystopian AI story. When Ada Lovelace met mathematician and inventor Charles Babbage, who was building a large calculator called the Difference Engine, Ada had the idea that information could be turned into numbers and programmed to tell the machine what to do in a new code. With this idea she became the world's first computer programmer, over 100 years before the first computer! This book is a great way for children to get to know this trailblazing woman who was ahead of her technological time.

3. Elephant Island by Leo Timmers

This wonderful picture book tells the story of Arnold the elephant, whose ship capsizes. He has to resort to inventiveness to fix things and must problem-solve and make fun and wild engineering attempts along the way. The illustrations are full of great details with something new to spot each time you read it. I love Arnold's positive outlook and belief that he can find a way and fix things with determination and perseverance, creating a home where all are welcome. It's a great picture book to share with your child or for teachers to use for the whole primary age range.

4. What's Technology? The Who, Where, Why and How! by Dr Frances Durkin, illustrated by The Boy Fitz Hammond

What's Technology? is a non-fiction book focusing on 13 major inventions that changed the world, and includes current topics such as AI technology. There are timelines and fun facts alongside engaging illustrations, diagrams and timelines (which include some diversity and women in STEM). Great for Key Stage 2 and all children curious about inventions and tech.

5. I Am Wolf by Alastair Chisholm

This techy, dystopian thriller is one of my favourite fiction reads this year. It's great for fans of Philip Reeve's Mortal Engines series but has a great nanotech spin. The main character, Coll, lives in the futuristic world with his clan on a Construct, which is a giant technological creature driven by the clan's combined willpower. They roam their world, fighting other clans and absorbing them into their own. The story is action-packed and will appeal to those who love sci-fi and technology.

6. Rosie Revere, Engineer by Andrea Beaty, illustrated by David Roberts

This popular picture book tells the story of Rosie, who has a huge passion for inventing and wants to become a famous engineer. I love that this story shows that Rosie must learn how to listen to advice and react to mistakes along the way, showing children that this is all part of the inventive process and that by embracing your mishaps you'll learn something new along the way.

7. Human 2.0: A Celebration of Human Bionics by Patrick Kane, illustrated by Sam Rodriguez

Invention meets the human body in Human 2.0, a non-fiction book perfect for those with curious technological minds. It explores the fascinating world of human bionics, focusing on medical engineering. The visual appeal of the illustrations along with the ease of the writing style make this complex subject accessible for children. This would be great for teachers of upper Key Stage 2 to have in the classroom and for those children who love biology alongside technology.

There are lots of other fabulous technological books out there so why not share your favourites with your friends, teachers, and BookTrust! Happy reading, learning, and pondering big technological questions.

North and the Only One by Vashti Hardy is out now.