So You Want To Be A Coder (Computer Programmer) (So You Want To Be A...)

"So You Want To Be A Coder (Computer Programmer) is another gem from the So You Want To Be series of children's educational picture books by Linda Soules. Whether it's video games or animated movies, designing a website or creating apps, computer programming is used everywhere. In a way, it's like magic in the world we live in. In this book, young readers will learn what a coder actually does. You will discover the tools of computer programming, which include the text editor, the terminal, version control, and the debugger. Walk through a day in the life of a computer programmer. Programmers often work in teams, and in these teams, their skill sets don't really overlap. There are a few famous coders in history, and you will get to know them here.

Youngsters from the age of 10 to 14 will find out what it takes to be a coder in So You Want To Be A Coder (Computer Programmer). This is a fantastic book to initiate young readers into the world of computer programming and get them interested in the subject. Linda Soules has a very systematic way of explaining the concepts touched upon in this book. I found it both informative and engaging. For example, the different aspects of computer programming and coding are thoroughly explored in a writing style that will certainly appeal to young readers. Like the other books in this series, this one is also a fun educational guide. For any parent who wants their child to take up programming, this book is a great start."

"So You Want To Be A Coder by Linda Soules introduces children to the world of computer programming in a thoughtful and expansive way. The book explains what coders do, where they work, the tools they use, the joys and frustrations of the job, and the qualities that make someone suited to it. Rather than treating coding as a flashy mystery, it presents programming as a patient craft built from problem-solving, curiosity, communication, and a willingness to keep trying when things break.

What I appreciated most was the book’s honesty. As a parent, I’m used to children’s career books that make every job sound shiny and effortless, but this one gives coding texture. It talks about failure without making it feel scary, and it explains that much of programming is reading, testing, fixing, asking better questions, and learning how to sit with not knowing. The writing has a calm confidence to it, and at its best, it makes coding feel less like a secret language for a certain kind of kid and more like a patient conversation between a curious mind and a machine.

The artwork gives the book a warm, almost storybook glow that softens a subject that could have felt dry. I liked the cozy desks, city windows, libraries, bedrooms, and team spaces, because they make the work feel relatable and lived-in. Some pages are more text-heavy than I’d expect for a traditional picture book, so younger children may need an adult beside them to slow the pace and talk things through. But that also gives the book substance. It doesn’t just skim the surface. It respects kids enough to explain real ideas, from debugging and version control to open-source communities and the quiet importance of writing clearly.

I found this to be a sincere, intelligent, and encouraging children’s book that treats children as capable thinkers. It’s a book to read together, especially with a child who likes puzzles, games, building things, or asking how everything works. I’d recommend it to curious elementary and early middle-grade readers, particularly those who might enjoy computers but need a clearer picture of what coding actually feels like."

"This is an adorable and informative book about what it entails to be a coder. This is perfect for a school library, a classroom or just a home if a child shows interest. The pictures were beautiful and engaging and the information on each page was also easy to absorb and understand. I learned a lot reading it and I’m sure children would love it!"

"This is a children's book, and found it to be fabulous. I have been a computer programmer for over 30 years and was curious how this book would describe the role I've played most of my life. It described the role of my profession better than any job description I've ever read. Anyone curious about computers and how they work will love it."

"This is such a great way to help kids (and adults) truly realize and understand what a coder actually does. It gives some history but also conveys the importance of grammar and writing skills, things kids still need to learn in school. The illustrations are very colorful helping the reader to visualize. Good book."

"This gem of a book does something rare in tech literature; it makes the world of coding feel human and accessible without dumbing anything down. The 'Day in the Life' section walks readers through a real programmer’s day with warmth and specificity, and the section on qualities of a great coder stands out for highlighting patience with failure, curiosity, empathy for future readers of your code, and comfort with not knowing, a refreshingly honest take for beginners who assume they aren’t 'smart enough.'

This a must-read for anyone considering coding or for educators and parents wanting to give a young person an honest window into a valuable careers."

"This was a great read. Lots of kids want to work with computers or work in coding. This is a fun and unique way for them to learn about the job, what is required and some of the basics of the job. The pictures are just wonderful and complete the explanation perfectly."

"I didn't expect much from a kids book about coding, thinking it would be very simple. I am so glad I was wrong. This book honestly made me want to change careers! It's very informative on the day to day challenges and expectations of coding. I enjoyed that it gives the reader a sense of 'you can do this, give it a try!'. The lessons in patience with failure, critical thinking, creativity, giving back, and logical solutions are one for the books (seriously lol). I especially connected with the author in the way the book showed that mental and physical health directly impact the outcome of your work. 10/10 recommend for anyone of any age curious about programming. (It also includes a TON of resources and stepping stones to get you started in your journey!)"