60 Technology Books for Kids: AI, Coding, STEM

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These engaging technology books for kids are perfect for helping preschool and elementary school students understand technology. Get a list of the best technology books for kids right here and learn why these books stand out. Studies are indicating that an early introduction to computer skills, including AI and coding, can give students a problem-solving, critical-thinking advantage. This book list includes technology books for preschoolers (and younger) as well as technology books for elementary students. Technology picture books, technology biographies, and coding books for beginners are included on the list, as well as books about artificial intelligence. These best kids books about technology can be used as technology read alouds or for independent reading. As an elementary school librarian who also teaches technology skills to kids, I have first-hand experience with the books kids like. The coding books for kids in particular simply fly off the shelves. If you are looking for some of the best programming books for kids, best books about AI for kids, or best coding books for kids, you’re in the right place!

Table of Contents

AI Books

Like it or hate it, AI is part of our world. Prepare and inform kids about the potential advantages and pitfalls of machine learning technology with the titles included on this list. Ethical use of AI technology can start at the elementary level.

An Emphasis on Coding

With studies showing that learning computer coding at a young age can aid in developing problem-solving and critical thinking skills, this list has coding books for kids of all ages. Whether a child has some coding experience or needs coding books for beginners, this list has titles for a variety of coding levels and interests. The coding books you will find here make ideal companions to free coding websites for kids, such as Code.org. Take kids’s coding skills to another level using the titles on this list.

STEM or STEAM Books

Lately, there has been a big emphasis on adding STEM or STEAM books to library or classroom book collections. What is STEM? It’s an approach to learning which emphasizes Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. In the case of the acronym STEAM, Art is added along with the other components. To this end, teachers have been eager to find technology books for kids that fit in with this educational approach. If you are looking for STEM or STEAM titles for grade school students, then this list is for you.

Different Technology Books to Meet Different Needs

Some of the books on this list of technology books for kids stress the importance of balancing technology with getting out into the world and exploring. Some encourage kids to set technology aside for a bit. Others tell inspiring stories of technology in action. For the upper elementary students, there are stories that may draw them away from the screen to pick up an intriguing technology adventure. Use these technology books for kids to inspire and inform. All are engaging and memorable.

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Technology Books for Preschoolers (and Younger)

Are preschoolers too young to learn about technology? Are preschoolers too young to learn about coding? What is a good age to start coding? Some coding advocates are in favor of coding skills being introduced to preschoolers. Although research has been done that supports the introduction of technology skills at a very young age, it will take time to see the long-term results of early introduction to technology, including coding, skills. There are indicators that show improved problem-solving and computational fluency skills result from early technology use. With that in mind, here are a few books for very young children that introduce different technology concepts.

My First Coding Book by Kiki Prottsman will help kids learn about sequencing, loops and other coding concepts through the use of games, puzzles and mazes. Give little programmers an engaging introduction to the world of computer programming with this innovative publication.

Here are a few more technology books written with preschoolers in mind:

ABCs of Engineering: The Essential STEM Board Book of First Engineering Words for Kids	Introduce science and engineering with this colorful ABC book, perfect for budding little scientists.
First Coding Book For Kids	No computer is required for the fun, interactive activities in this engaging workbook.
I Can Code: If/Then	Simple text and sturdy lift-the-flap illustrations introduce little ones to the coding concept of cause and effect with examples from the world around them.
I Can Code: And/Or	Using colorful illustrations and engaging text, this lift-the-flap book introduces young children to the concept of operators and true/false statements.

Technology Books for Kindergarten and First Grade Students

Boy + Bot by Ame Dyckman: In this sweet story of friendship, the boy thinks the robot is ailing. The boy tries to help by offering the usual remedies for human illness. The robot is merely turned off, so of course the applesauce and stories don’t help the robot recover. When the robot is powered on and finds the boy asleep, he believes the boy is ill. The robot’s remedies (oil and the user’s manual) are ineffective, of course. This book gently addresses themes such as empathy and viewing life from a different perspective. It would be of interest to younger elementary students. I loved this book, and I am looking forward to adding it to my school’s library collection this fall. I’ll have more money in my library budget then!

Dot by Randi Zuckerberg: When a tech-savvy girl sets off on an adventure, surprises await. Will Dot be able to turn her focus from her technology devices to pay attention to her surroundings? This timely tale, written by the former marketing director for Facebook, gently reminds readers to find the balance in life. This is a well-written technology book for younger elementary students, and I’m happy to report that we have it in our library collection. It’s a terrific read-aloud book for technology.

Dot Unplugged by Candlewick Press and The Jim Henson Company: In this sequel to the previously listed book, Dot, By Randi Zuckerberg, Dot is at a loss when the power goes out. The weather outside is crummy, so what is there to do? Join Dot as she explores neglected areas of her house to find fun activities. A long-unused game provides hilarious fun for the family. Will they decide to remain unplugged even after the power is restored? Find out in this winsome, colorful picture book, geared for kids in the primary elementary grades.

If You Give a Mouse an iPhone: A Cautionary Tail by Ann Droyd: What could possibly happen if you give a mouse an iPhone? Plenty, as readers of this parody will find out. Written in the style of If You Give a Mouse a Cookie by Laura Numeroff, this humorous tale or “tail” will tickle your funny bone. I’m so glad I ordered this book last fall. The younger kids love it!

Cami and Wyatt Have Too Much Screen Time by Stacy C. Bauer: From the author of the Cami Kangaroo and Wyatt Too series comes a new installment. This technology tale is, as you may have guessed from the title, about turning off electronic devices. Are Cami and Wyatt’s friends feeling neglected? What will it take for Cami and Wyatt to pay attention to what is going on in the real world? Tune in to this popular series and get some gentle technology reminders appropriate for all ages, from young kids to adults.

These other technology books for young elementary students may be of interest to you as well:

The Couch Potato by Jory John	When the power goes out, Couch Potato is forced to go outside for some fresh air. How will Couch manage without having screen time? Find out in this humorous and engaging book.
Hello Ruby: Adventures in Coding by Linda Liukas	Young students are introduced to the basics of computer programming by learning about concepts like breaking down tasks into smaller chunnks and creating step-by-step plans.
Hello Ruby: Journey Inside the Computer by Linda Liukas	Ruby returns in this sequel to the previous book. This time, she is joined by her friend Mouse on a journey through the different components on the inside of a computer.
Hello Ruby: Expedition to the Internet by Linda Liukas	In the third installment of the Hello Ruby series, Ruby teaches kids about the cloud, networks, and how information travels online.
Limit Your Dragon’s Screen Time: Help Your Dragon Break His Tech Addiction by Steve Herman	In this entertaining selection, kids learn about having a balance between living in the virtual world and living in reality. Follow the tips in this book to help kids learn why screen time should be limited.
Chicken Clicking by Jeanne Willis	Young students learn about the perils of the Internet when an online “friend” turns out to be not-so-friendly. It’s a technology-age retelling of Little Red Riding Hood and a lesson about being cautious online.
A Computer Called Katherine by Suzanne Slade	This picture book biography tells the insiring true story of Katherine Johnson who saved the Apollo 13 space mission with her quick calculating skills.
Mae Among the Stars by Roda Ahmed	Written for very young students, this encouraging book about persistence and dreaming big relates the story of astronaut Mae Jemison.
Goldilocks: A Hashtag Cautionary Tale by Jeanne Willis	Addicted to getting likes for her online videos, Goldilocks makes some unwise decisions in her quest for internet popularity. A great way to introduce young students to digital safety!
The Berenstain Bears’ Computer Trouble by Jan Berenstain	This book is especially for fans of those classic Berenstain bears. When the family ends up spending all day in front of their screens, it’s once again up to Papa Bear to save the situation.

Technology Books for Second and Third Grade Students

How to Code a Sand Castle by Josh Funk: In this fun introduction to the world of coding, a young girl (Pearl) and her robot (Pascal) attempt to build the perfect sandcastle. Using simple computer coding terms, readers are led through the process of designing the castle. Will the castle live up to Pearl’s expectations? Have fun reading this story of the coding process and its use in solving real-world problems. It’s a technology book to remember!

Unplugged Ninja: Have you heard of the series Ninja Life Hacks? It’s been such a big hit that this is book number 15. In this story, Unplugged Ninja relates his struggles with screen addiction. Filled with humor appealing to a variety of ages, this book, as are the other books in the series, is mainly geared to kids 3 to 11. Find out how Unplugged Ninja overcame his technology addiction and was able to unplug.

On a Magical Do-Nothing Day by Beatrice Alemagna: Need to encourage someone to take a break from screen-time? This beautifully illustrated book will inspire the reader to get out and use his or her imagination! Readers of all ages will find themselves wanting to spend time getting lost in this story of a rainy day, technology-free adventure.

If you are in need of even more technology book titles for second and third graders, here they are:

How to Code a Rollercoaster by Josh Funk	In this follow-up to the How to Code a Sandcastle book, Pearl and Pascal are at it again. This time, they are at an amusement park using code to make the most of their visit.
Clicker the Cat by Kyla Cullinane	This first installment of the Clicker the Cat series teaches a lesson about creating good electaonic habits. The main character learns to leave the screen behind to do other things.
The Technology Tale: A Digital Footprint Story by Julia Cook	Using rhymes and colorful illustrations, this engaging book offers advice about navigating the pitfalls of a digital world. Topics include cyberbullying and learning about posting too much information.
The Astronaut with a Song for the Stars by Julia Finley Mosca	Ellen Ochoa was told in college that engineering wasn’t for girls, she refused to give up and eventually became an astronaut. The inspiring tale is told in catchy rhyme.
Coding Capers: Luci and the Missing Robot by Angela Cleveland	In order to find their teacher’s missing robot, Luci and her friends have to follow clues and do some STEM-like problem solving to get to the bottom of the mystery.
The Day the Screens Stood Still by R.L. Ullman	In a fresh new look at what to do without screentime, Sammy and his family have to learn to live without their screens when distaster strikes.
Once Upon a Time Online by David Bedford	Ideal to include with a unit on mixed-up fairy tales as well as online safety, find out what happens when favorite fairy tale characters learn a lesson in online safety as a result of receiving a laptop.
Nerdy Birdy Tweets by Aaron Reynolds	Tensions rise when Nerdy Birdy, a video game fanatic, joins Tweetster. His friend Vulture, who is not a fan of video games, tries to be patient with Nerdy Birdy, but finally, loses her temper. Is it the end of a friendship?
Troll Stinks by Jeanne Willis	Taking the farmer’s phone and taking selfies seems like a good idea at the time to Billy Goat and his friend Cyril. When they find the number for a troll online, they decide send mean messages. But, are really as bad as Grandpa Gruff says they are?
The Fabulous Friend Machine by Nick Bland	When Popcorn the friendly chicken finds a “friend machine” (a cell phone) in the barn, she makes a bunch of new friends. But are the new friends truly her friends? Find out in this tale of internet caution.
Computer Decoder: Dorothy Vaughan, Computer Scientist (Picture Book Biography)	Introduce students to coding with this inspiring story about a pioneering NASA computer scientist. Hands-on STEM activities included!
Coding for Kids: Scratch: Learn Coding Skills, Create 10 Fun Games, and Master Scratch	Designed for younger kids (ages 6-10), this book introduces kids to Scratch with basic coding concepts and activities.

Technology Books for Fourth and Fifth Grade Students

By the time kids reach fourth and fifth grades, they have most likely had a lot of lessons about using technology wisely. The challenge with some upper elementary students is to get them to turn away from technology devices to pick up a book. With that in mind, some of the titles listed for this age level are engaging technology adventures. Some of them are in chapter book form.

Emmy in the Key of Code by Aimee Lucido: This wonderful story is excellent on so many levels. The story is written in verse and is designed to appeal to upper elementary or middle school students. I wasn’t sure I would like this book, as books written in verse are not usually what I choose to read. However, I was amazed by the clever way the author incorporates computer code into the verse patterns. As Emmy, a new student, tries to fit in, she finds her talent in an unexpected way. As the plot progressed, I found I learned a bit of computer coding myself! The plot is engaging, the characters are appealing, and the use of verse intertwined with coding is genius! I highly recommend this book, which I’m going to order for the school library where I work.

Grace Hopper: Queen of Computer Code by Laurie Wallmark: Before I read this book, I had never heard of Grace Hopper. This incredibly accomplished woman led an amazing life! A pioneer in computer programming, she coined the term “computer bug”. This picture book biography chronicles her many accomplishments with appealing illustrations to help draw the reader in. Appropriate for all elementary students, it would make a terrific read-aloud or independent reading selection. What an incredible true story!

AI Books for Upper Elementary Students

Books about artificial intelligence (AI) are constantly being updated. Here are some of the latest titles:

Artificial Intelligence by Nancy Dickman: A comprehensive overview of artificial intelligence, covering its history, current applications, and future potential.

Jobs in Artificial Intelligence by Beatrice Harris: A guidebook detailing various career opportunities and paths within the field of artificial intelligence.

All about Artificial Intelligence by Joanne Mattern: An informative book providing a broad understanding of artificial intelligence, including its concepts, technologies, and impact on society.

Medical Artificial Intelligence Breakthroughs by Heather E. Schwartz: This book explores the advancements and innovations in artificial intelligence specifically within the medical field.

Super Surprising Trivia about Artificial Intelligence by Lisa M. Bolt Simons: A fun and intriguing compilation of lesser-known facts and anecdotes related to artificial intelligence.

Here are some additional technology book selections for fourth and fifth grade students:

But It’s Just a Game by Julia Cook	Jasper is totally mesmerized by his video games. Then he leans the importance of switching his game controller with a “life controller” to create a healthy technology balance.
Trapped in a Video Game by Dustin Brady	12-year-old Jesse Rigsby has to do some quick computer programming to get out of the video game he is trapped in. Will he make it out in time?
Trapped in a Video Game: The Invisible Invasion by Dustin Brady	Trapped once again inside a video game, 12-year-old Jesse Rigsby is now invisible. In the midst of being chased by Bigfoot, a velociraptor and a flame-throwing bat, will Jesse be able to save his friend Mark?
Trapped in a Video Game: Robots Revolt by Dustin Brady	Oh dear. Now there are angry robots running amok due to being released into the real world by Jesse Rigsby. In this third installment in the popular series, will Jesse be able to save humanity?
The Wild Robot by Peter Brown	When a robot gets stranded in the wilderness, will it be able to survive on its own? When help comes from unexpected places, important lessons are learned in this entertaining chapter book.
The Wild Robot Escapes by Peter Brown	In this sequel to the popular Wild Robot, Roz the robot now has to learn how to survive in civilization. Will she ever find her way back home? Find out in this engaging adventure.
Lowriders in Space by Cathy Camper	What do you get when you combine three kids who love to work with cars and a thrilling contest with a cash prize? You get an epic adventure in graphic novel format packed with excellent science facts.
Trapped in a Video Game: Return to Doom Island by Dustin Brady	Fans of this series will once again have to endure the suspense as Jesse Rigsby tries to avoid calamity once again. This time, in the fourth adventure, the challenge is learning retro gaming skills to survive.
Trapped in a Video Game: The Final Boss by Dustin Brady	Is this finally the end for Jesse Rigsby? Fans will be in suspense as Jesse and his friend Eric try to outwit angry, fire-breathing creatures in this final installment of the popular series.
Escape from a Video Game: The Secret of Phantom Island by Dustin Brady	In a new series by the prolific author of the Trapped in a Video Game Series, kids will have hours of screen-free fun when they participate in choosing their own path through the exciting treasure-hunting adventure.
Escape from a Video Game: Mystery on the Starship Crusader by Dustin Brady	Eight strangers compete to win one million dollars while trying to survive inside a video game. As the players begin disappearing one at a time, who will be one to endure to the end? Another edge-of-your-chair choose-your-own-path epic adventure!
BenBee and the Teacher Griefer	Four kids in summer school and one determined teacher make a winning combination in this engaging novel. In order to get her students to read a book, Ms. J agrees to learn how to play their favorite video game. A great choice for readers who would rather be in front of a screen!
Coding Games in Scratch: A Step-by-Step Visual Guide to Building Your Own Computer Games	This popular coding book is always checked out. Kids can follow simple coding steps to create games in the Scratch 3.0 programming language.
Coding Games in Python	A companion book to the previous title, this book offers simple steps to create games using online Python resources.
Coding for Kids: Python: Learn to Code with 50 Awesome Games and Activities	Kids can learn the basics of the Python coding language to create games as they work through the lessons and activities.
Coding for Minecrafters: Unofficial Adventures for Kids Learning Computer Code	Using the popular Minecraft theme, kids are introduced to coding with screenshot-supported activities and experiments.
Code This!: Puzzles, Games, Challenges, and Computer Coding Concepts for the Problem Solver in You	Published by National Geographic Kids, this book offers kids the opportunity to learn basic computer programming skills by joining in with the missions of the Coder Crew.
You Wouldn’t Want to Live Without Coding!	Go on a humorous historical journey that demonstrates how coding has become an important part of so many things we use every day.

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Lisa Mitchell is a former classroom teacher, now a school librarian, who likes to use her job as an excuse to stay up far too late reading books and noodling around with tech tools. To learn more about what this website has to offer, click on over to the About page.