How to Code a Rollercoaster

Pearl and her trusty robot, Pascal, are in for a treat: a day at the amusement park! They’re excited to play games, eat ice cream, and, of course, ride all the rollercoasters. There’s just one problem: The Python Coaster, the biggest and best ride in the park, also has the longest line. Can Pearl and Pascal use CODE to help them get a seat on the giant coaster? By mastering the use of variables, sequences, loops, and more, this duo just might get the ride of their dreams—while having the time of their lives.  

Young readers will have fun exploring the carnival with Pearl and Pascal. Along the way, readers will become familiar with basic code vocabulary. The book uses simple definitions such as “in code, a variable is like a box or container. But instead of holding toys or snacks, it holds information.” While the concepts are relatively easy, readers may need additional help understanding how Pearl uses code to plan her day. One of the story’s main conflicts is the long line to get on the Python roller coaster; readers will understand Pearl’s dilemma especially when she runs out of tokens before she gets on the ride. 

How to Code a Rollercoaster uses bright illustrations with fun elements to show the amusement park. The text uses easy vocabulary, short sentences, and different style components to make it easy to understand. For example, when Pearl talks, the text appears in white quote boxes, while blue boxes show how many tokens Pearl has left. In addition, words that refer to code are in bold, colored text. Trying to understand code may frustrate some readers, but other readers will discover ways to incorporate code into their day. 

This book strives to introduce coding to girls. Reshma Saujni, founder of Girls Who Code, writes, “By introducing core concepts of coding to children now, we’re helping prepare them for a future of changing the world through code.” How to Code a Rollercoaster uses a cheerful protagonist and funny robot to show how code can be used in everyday life. To introduce more STEM concepts to young readers, also check out the following picture books: Questioneers Collection by Andrea Beaty, Cece Loves Science by Kimberly Derting & Shelli R. Johannes, and Charlotte the Scientist Is Squished by Camille Andros. 

Sexual Content  

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Violence  

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Drugs and Alcohol  

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Supernatural 

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Spiritual Content  

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