Programming concepts come to life in this kid-friendly intro to the basics of computer science and coding, with puzzles, games, and quirky characters.

Welcome to the Coder Crew, where you're on a mission. You'll write algorithms to find hidden treasures, decode ciphers to read secret messages, create loops to program an expedition, and more. Along the way, you'll learn the art of figuring out how to do things in general. That's called computer science. You'll also learn the art of explaining something in particular. That's called programming, or coding.

Then you can put your skills to the test to help Cody the Robot. Whenever the Code This! Explorers need a hand, Cody is there to help. Unfortunately, this robot is very particular about the details. It can't simply collect a rare type of bacteria from a volcano. It needs step-by-step instructions on where to go, how to collect the bacteria, what bacteria to collect, and how to get back to the Explorers. Even more unfortunately, the Explorers are superbusy folks with a lot of cool stuff on their minds. That means they rarely give Cody the instructions it needs, which makes it want to totally short-circuit. That's where YOU come in to help Cody succeed at some of the trickiest, most awesome missions on Earth. "A puzzle-based introduction to computer-programming concepts.This computer coding book immediately sets itself apart by not using computers at all. Instead, readers write codes and complete puzzles by pencil and paper, play games in real life, and even do some arts and crafts...Appealingly, this positive, highly accessible coding guide needs no computers." -- Kirkus

"Concepts such as algorithms, optimization, constraints, cryptology, and binary code are introduced with fun and workable hands-on activities...A strength of this title is its clarity. The conversational tone is perfect for the intended age range. VERDICT An applicable resource for intro to coding clubs at schools or libraries. An engaging introduction to basic and intermediate fundamentals of computer science and coding through various screen-free activities."—School Library Journal


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