Ada Lovelace

In 1833, Ada Lovelace met mathematician Charles Babbage, the inventor of calculating machines. She went on to devise a way of inputting data into Babbage’s Analytical Machine, and in doing so became the first ever computer programmer. In this biography, kids will learn all about Ada Lovelace’s fascinating life, including her famous father (the celebrated poet Lord Byron), her talent for languages and mathematics, and her predictions for how computers would change our lives.

This biography series from DK goes beyond the basic facts to tell true-life stories of history’s most interesting people. Full-color photographs and hand-drawn illustrations complement the thoughtfully written, age-appropriate text to create an engaging book that children will enjoy. Definition boxes, information sidebars, maps, inspiring quotes, and other nonfiction text features add depth. There is also a reference section and each book includes an author’s introduction letter, a glossary, and an index. 

Readers will enjoy learning about Ada Lovelace. The information allows readers to imagine Ada’s time period, life, and interests. For example, when Ada was a child, she wanted to learn about rainbows. The story explains why Ada was fascinated with rainbows and includes a one-page infographic explaining how rainbows are made. Throughout the book, readers will see the people, things, and events that affected Ada. Not only are the additional facts fascinating but the information is displayed in a way that breaks up the text and makes the book accessible to many readers. Still, struggling readers will most likely need help understanding some of the advanced vocabulary.  

Ada Lovelace packs a large amount of information into the book. However, the large text only allows three or fewer paragraphs per page. Each page has a graphic element and many of the pages have a full-sized illustration. While the book focuses on Ada’s accomplishments, the book may also spark readers’ interest in a variety of topics such as notable scientists, the Great Exhibition of 1851, and the first computer. Because of the vast amount of information, Ada Lovelace is a must-read for anyone who is researching Ada or is interested in computer science. 

Ada’s story is both interesting and educational. In addition, her love of learning and her innate sense of curiosity is inspiring. Ada “is a role model for all girls interested in learning about science and math. Ada grew up in a time when women were expected to be good wives and mothers and not focus on their education—this made her achievements in science so momentous. . . [Ada] constantly proved wrong the people who doubted her abilities.” Reading about Ada will give children the encouragement to try new things and follow their interests.   

Sexual Content  

• Ada’s father, Lord Byron, “had many love affairs.”  

Violence  

• Ada’s mother had strict rules. When Ada was young, she would often fidget. Her mother “asked a maid to wrap Ada’s fingers with black cotton bags. Ada bit the maid and was sent to her room as punishment.”  

Drugs and Alcohol  

• None 

Language  

• None 

Supernatural 

• None 

Spiritual Content  

• None