This book outlines the life of Ada Byron Lovelace.  Ada is known throughout the world as the first computer programmer.  Raised by a strict and domineering mother, Ada never met her father, the famous poet Lord Byron.  Interested in math, mental puzzles, and inventions, Ada was a woman born well before her time.

I thought this book was a bit mediocre.  I didn't feel like I really got to know Ada.  The book rushed through her life story, leaving out huge periods of time.  The book spent a lot of time talking about Ada's mother, but then barely discussed her husband and children.  Overall, this book was a bust.

I enjoyed McCully's biography of Ada Byron Lovelace. Many students are taught about her in high school, but younger students may find inspiration in her drive for knowledge and maneuvering through the social standards of her day. The illustrations, portraits, and other drawings certainly add to the appeal of the book and make Ada come alive for modern readers. I do think the writing itself is geared more toward middle school students, especially with words like languidly, biquadratic, and prepossession. 

Thank you NetGalley and Candlewick Press for the opportunity to read an advance reader copy.

This is a biography about Ada Byron Lovelace, an inventor and crusader I had never heard of before!  Her backstory is very intriguing.  Her mother left her poetic and wild father when Ada was very young.  Lady Byron, far from perfect, focused Ada on studies.  She had nannies and instructors ready for Ada.  As a young child, Ada was already thinking differently; making structures out of blocks instead of what was instructed.  She had a bold and active imagination.  
At a party one night, Ada met Charles Babbage, a 40 year old widower who was trying to woo Ada’s mom.  Instead, Charles and Ada spoke of their love of algebra and inventions.  He invited them to his house for a demonstration of the difference engine.  Her need to invent just gets started from there.  I love the pictures of the characters throughout  and the sketches.  It truly adds to the book and takes you back to the time before computers!  WOW!  She truly amazed me!
I love finding books about strong women to share with my class, as many biographies of inventors are of men.  This book is appropriate for grades 3 and up.  Girls especially will eat this one up!!
I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for a fair review.