Books About Programming

The Best Programming Books for Kids

Looking for excellent children's books about programming? This collection brings together Bookroo's highest-rated and most useful picks in one place.

Start with our editorial favorites, then browse recommendations organized by reading stage to find the right book for your reader.

The Shortlist

Our 4 Favorite Books About Programming

Grace Hopper
Sale price
$1797
Picture Book · Ages 5–9 · 2017

Grace Hopper

Discover the trailblazing journey of a woman who taught computers to 'speak English' and broke all the rules.

48 pages· 1,796 words· Est. 14 min read-aloud
5.8/7 Bookroo·4.4/5 Goodreads · 1,300 ratings
$18.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: Grace Hopper, a pioneering software tester and naval leader, defied conventions and revolutionized computer science. Known for coining 'computer bug' and making computers 'speak English,' her story is one of innovation and daring. As a mentor and inventor, Hopper's insatiable curiosity led her to achieve the impossible, inspiring future generations of science-minded youth. This engaging biography captures her wit and groundbreaking accomplishments, inviting readers to explore the life of a true rule breaker and chance taker. What challenges did she face, and how did she overcome them to become 'Amazing Grace'? Discover her incredible legacy.
How Do Computers Follow Instructions?
Sale price
$958
Picture Book · Ages 7–10 · 2019

How Do Computers Follow Instructions?

By J.T. Liso, Srimalie Bassani (Illustrator) · Book #23 in the How Do? series

Discover how computers think and solve problems with coding basics.

32 pages· 1,242 words· Est. 10 min read-aloud
4.0 Goodreads · 10 ratings
$9.99Save 4%
Hardcover
Summary: Dive into the world of computers and uncover how they execute tasks with precision. Explore coding fundamentals like variables, binary code, and loops through engaging diagrams and questions. This book invites young minds to guess and learn the science behind computer operations, making complex concepts accessible and fun. Will you crack the code of how machines think?
When Bill Gates Memorized an Encyclopedia
Sale price
$2722
Picture Book · Ages 8–11 · 2018

When Bill Gates Memorized an Encyclopedia

By Mark Weakland, Jeffrey Ebbeler (Illustrator)

Discover the childhood of a future tech titan and his path to greatness.

32 pages· 1,213 words· Est. 10 min read-aloud
4.2 Goodreads · 15 ratings
$28.65Save 5%
Library Binding
Summary: Explore the early years of a young genius who sold peanuts and memorized encyclopedias. This playful tale reveals how a curious mind and relentless drive set the stage for a future of innovation and success. What lessons from his youth shaped the world's richest man?
The Magic School Bus Gets Programmed
Sale price
$333
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 1999

The Magic School Bus Gets Programmed

A school computer goes haywire. Can the kids fix it?

32 pages· 2,041 words· Est. 16 min read-aloud
4.3 Goodreads · 321 ratings
$3.50Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: When the school computer malfunctions, Ms. Frizzle takes her class on a thrilling journey inside the machine. As they navigate the digital chaos, the kids must uncover the secrets of how computers work to restore order. Will they solve the mystery before it's too late?