Coding

Part of the Tech Bytes: High Tech series from Norwood House Press, Coding is an introduction to what coding is, its history, and its future. The book traces the development of computers, programming, and coding languages from the 1800s to the present day. Names such as Ada Lovelace, Charles Babbage, Konrad Zuse, and Grace Hopper are places in their historical context and their contributions are briefly described. The hardware developments that have led from computers that filled entire rooms to the latest in smart phones and tablets are also explored. And then the job of a programmer (although it is also pointed out that it is a "mindset"), is described. Everything from hackers and encryption, apps and social media, to virtual reality and artificial intelligence are discussed. And the future of the field is included - with mentions of Hour of Code, coding bootcamps, and further developments in computer animation and virtual spaces.

This is the perfect book for a young (or not so young) reader who wants an explanation of what coding is and how it fits into the use and development of computers. It gives an overview of the field and its history, as well as goals and challenges for the future. There are helpful features like a glossary and list of sources for further information, and sidebars and photos provide support for topics in the main text.