As technology continues to evolve, children’s books aim to make complex topics more accessible and engaging. This season’s selections follow familiar trends, with many titles offering broad introductions rather than in-depth details or hands-on activities. The topics covered in these series remain relevant and engaging for young readers, even if they largely repeat general concepts rather than providing fresh insights. Subjects like generative artificial intelligence, Wi-Fi, and media literacy are covered, helping kids understand the digital world around them. Other books highlight engineering marvels, cutting-edge robotics, and the latest advancements in cars and transportation, providing valuable introductions to essential technology and machine-related topics for curious minds.

Elementary

Chambers, Ford. AI at Home. ISBN 9798892135535.
––––. AI at Work. ISBN 9798892135566.
––––. AI in Cars. ISBN 9798892135597.
––––. AI in Entertainment. ISBN 9798892135627.
––––. AI in Medicine. ISBN 9798892135658.
––––. AI in Space. ISBN 9798892135689.
ea vol: 24p. (AI World). Jump!/Pogo. Jan. 2025. Tr $26.99.
Gr 1-3–This series introduces young readers to the role of artificial intelligence in various aspects of life. Each book is divided into three chapters: the first defines and introduces AI in that area, the second explains how the AI works, and the third explores future possibilities. Much of the information is conveyed through examples of products, such as smart kitchen appliances that assist with cooking and prevent food from spoiling. Readers will not only be pulled in by the interesting topic but also by the full-page color photos. Using the photos as a background image, text is featured in colorful text boxes and side-bars. The overall effect is a visually appealing series perfect for young readers who learn through text and visuals. VERDICT This is a solid purchase where more books are needed for young readers on the topic of artificial intelligence.

Cooke, Tim. Drone Soccer. ISBN 9798765647936.
––––. Robot Sumo. ISBN 9798765647950.
Jackson, Tom. Drone Racing. ISBN 9798765647929.
––––. Robot Obstacle Courses. ISBN 9798765647943.
ea vol: 32p. (Robot Sports). Lerner/Lerner Sports. Jan. 2025. Tr $30.65.
Gr 4-6–This four-book series explores the world of competitive robotics, covering events like drone racing, robot sumo wrestling, and other high-tech sports. Each book provides a balanced mix of text and color photos, focusing on the technology, mechanics, and history behind these competitions rather than encouraging participation. Readers will find clear explanations of how robots function, the rules of each sport, and key developments in the field. The writing is informative and straightforward, with images that clarify concepts rather than create excitement. While not aimed at drawing in casual readers, the series serves as a useful resource for research or those interested in the technical aspects of robotic competition. A glossary, an index, a player profile, tips for getting involved, and recommended resources conclude each book. VERDICT A fine addition for collections needing material on robotics and technology-driven sports.

Spanier, Kristine. Digital Footprint. ISBN 9798892135719.
––––. Digital Responsibility. ISBN 9798892135771.
––––. Digital Routines. ISBN 9798892135801.
––––. False Information Online. ISBN 9798892135740.
ea vol: 24p. (Digital Wellness). Jump!/Blue Owl. Jan. 2025. Tr $29.99.
Gr 1-3–This easy-to-read series offers suggestions about how to have a healthy relationship with technology. Each title discusses one aspect of how technology can negatively affect our lives, such as too much screen time or harmful comments on social media. The information is presented simply, offering general reasons to follow the advice without relying on statistics or serious mental and physical consequences. Each spread features a large color photo of a diverse range of people interacting with technology. Alongside these photos are short paragraphs or sentences in colorful text boxes. While much of the information is familiar to older readers, this series is well-suited to young readers new to the topics. A glossary, an index, a link to the publisher’s website, and a page on how to practice what was covered in the text make this a helpful tool for teachers and young readers. VERDICT A useful series for introducing healthy interactions with technology to young readers.

Upper Elementary to Middle School

Gagne, Tammy. How Airplanes Fly. ISBN 9781098295844.
Gendell, Megan. How Light Switches Brighten a Room. ISBN 9781098295875.
Mattern,Joanne. How Bridges Stand Tall. ISBN 9781098295851.
McKinney,Donna B. How Toilets Flush and Fill. ISBN 9781098295905.
Ringstad,Arnold. How Rockets Reach Space. ISBN 9781098295882.
Ventura,Marne. How Dams Hold Back Water. ISBN 9781098295868.
––––. Why Arches and Triangles Are Strong. ISBN 9781098295912.
Wilson,Libby. How Skyscrapers Stand Tall. ISBN 9781098295899.
ea vol: 32p. (Engineering Answers). ABDO/Kids Core. Jan. 2025. Tr $35.64.
Gr 3-6–These in-depth books break down the mechanics of everyday engineering feats, from skyscrapers and airplanes to toilets. While engineering enthusiasts may find them fascinating, their primary use will be for research and classroom projects. Each section explains key engineering principles, providing readers with essential terminology, facts, and a clear understanding of how these structures and machines function. The text is dense, with most pages packed with information. Color photos serve to clarify concepts rather than to impress visually. The books include thought-provoking questions, facts, and primary source materials to support further study. A glossary, an index, and online resources for further reading round out each volume. VERDICT A solid addition to collections in need of engineering research materials.

Gall, Jared. Aston Martin. ISBN 9781668956601.
––––. Corvette. ISBN 9781668956618.
––––. Ford GT. ISBN 9781668956625.
––––. McLaren. ISBN 9781668956632.
––––. Mercedes-Benz. ISBN 9781668956649.
––––. Viper. ISBN 9781668956656.
ea vol: 32p. (Floored! Supercars). Cherry Lake/45th Parallel. Jan. 2025. Tr $32.07.
Gr 3-6–Packed with information, this series is for serious car enthusiasts. Readers with an established interest will relish information about the history, models, inventors, and other highlights of each car maker. Compared to other car series on the market, this series is text-heavy, with approximately half of the page dedicated to text and the other half showcasing the cars of today and yesteryear. While packed with detailed information, the heavy text may be a bit much for the average young car fan, who may prefer more visual content. VERDICT Consider as an additional purchase for shelves that already have books on cars. These may not be readers’ first choice.

Harris, Christopher. Understanding Generative AI. ISBN 9781499450033.
––––. What Is Machine Learning? ISBN 9781499450002.
ea vol: 24p. (Spotlight on Kids Can Code). Rosen/PowerKids. Jan. 2025. Tr $27.93.
Gr 4-6–This fourth set in the Spotlight on Kids Can Code series includes two titles on machine learning, offering an overview of artificial intelligence and generative AI. Each book explores the history, current applications, and future possibilities of these technologies. While there is some explanation of how AI and GAI function, the focus is on broader concepts rather than coding specifics. Readers looking to develop their own programs or apps will not find technical guidance here. Each two-page spread pairs a full page of text with a related stock photo that supports the topic without adding much depth. Occasional text boxes highlight interesting details, such as the typical size of a dataset used to train AI. A glossary and index wrap up each volume. VERDICT A fine choice for those seeking a general introduction to AI and GAI, rather than those looking for hands-on skills.

Idzikowski, Lisa. The Challenges of AI. ISBN 9798765647899.
––––. The Future of AI. ISBN 9798765647905.
––––. How AI Works. ISBN 9798765647912.
Olson,Elsie. AI and the Arts. ISBN 9798765647868.
––––. AI Basics. ISBN 9798765647875.
––––. AI Safety. ISBN 9798765647882.
ea vol: 32p. (Exploring Artificial Intelligence). Lerner. Jan. 2025. Tr $30.65.
Gr 5-8–This series takes a look at various facets of the subject, from the future of AI to safety issues. Each topic, such as artists’ reactions to AI created art and the history of AI, are covered in detail with examples featuring historical events and people associated with the technology. This provides not only an understanding of the concepts but also facts that can be used for research papers. Each page contains a content-dense paragraph along with a large color photo. Background graphics enhance the design, making these titles visually appealing reads. A glossary, an index and further reading sections make this series useful for research. VERDICT A solid purchase for libraries expanding their technology sections for older readers.

Kelly, Christa. Benefits of Artificial Intelligence. ISBN 9781503893788.
––––. Dangers of Artificial Intelligence. ISBN 9781503893795.
Kulz,George Anthony. Generative Artificial Intelligence. ISBN 9781503893801.
––––. Machine Learning. ISBN 9781503893825.
––––. Neural Networks. ISBN 9781503893832.
––––. What Is Artificial Intelligence?ISBN 9781503893849.
Williams,Haley. Artificial Intelligence inEveryday Life. ISBN 9781503893771.
––––. Jobs and Artificial Intelligence. ISBN 9781503893818.
ea vol: 24p. (Artificial Intelligence). The Child’s World/Stride. Jan. 2025. Tr $32.79.
Gr 4-7–Explore the many ways artificial intelligence shapes our world in this insightful series. Each title delves into the complexities of AI, from its everyday applications to its profound societal impacts. Readers will uncover how technologies like deep fakes challenge our sense of reality and how neural networks mimic the human brain. These brief books provide a clear overview of foundational concepts and specific devices influencing our lives. The text is accentuated with color photos and illustrations that aid in the understanding. A glossary, an index, quick facts, thought-provoking questions, and suggestions for further reading make this series a valuable resource for both research and personal exploration. VERDICT A useful series where detailed information about AI is needed.

Knutson, Julie. Creating Content. ISBN 9781668956304.
––––. Identifying the Source. ISBN 9781668956311.
––––. Understanding Audience. ISBN 9781668956328.
––––. Values, Viewpoints, and Bias. ISBN 9781668956335.
––––. What’s the Appeal?ISBN 9781668956342.
––––. What’s the Purpose?ISBN 9781668956359.
ea vol: 32p. (21st Century Skills Library: Take a Look! Modern Media Literacy). Cherry Lake. Jan. 2025. Tr $32.07.
Gr 5-8–As media literacy becomes a greater academic focus, this series provides a strong foundation for learning. The first book defines media and content, while subsequent titles explore key aspects of media literacy, such as bias, intent, and how creators appeal to their audience. The books introduce these topics through examples, statistics, and essential media literacy terms and concepts. Engaging visuals—including colorful fonts, dynamic backgrounds, and photos of teens interacting with technology—complement the text. The writing is accessible, incorporating real-life stories of teens creating media alongside direct statements that encourage readers to reflect on their own media consumption. Each book includes an index, a glossary, recommendations for further reading, and extension activities. VERDICT A solid addition for classrooms and libraries supporting media literacy education.

Kuehl, Ashley. The Monster Trucks Encyclopedia. ISBN 9781098294427.
Lamichhane,Priyanka. The Formula 1 Encyclopedia. ISBN 9781098294410.
––––. The NASCAR Encyclopedia. ISBN 9781098294441.
Russo,Kristin J. The Muscle Cars Encyclopedia. ISBN 9781098294434.
ea vol: 192p. (Motorsports Encyclopedias). ABDO/Encyclopedias. Jan. 2025. Tr $52.79.
Gr 4-9–Car fans will be delighted with the photos and comprehensive information in these motor sport encyclopedias. Each book focuses on a specific type of car, from muscle cars and monster trucks to Formula 1 and NASCAR. Readers will start with a deep dive into the history of these machines before exploring notable models, legendary drivers, races, culture, and key events. Engaging writing brings to life unforgettable races, record-setting performances, and groundbreaking engineering. Every page pairs well-researched text with striking images, from vintage black-and-white photos that showcase the early days to a plethora of dynamic full-color shots of modern vehicles and drivers. A glossary, an index, and recommendations for further reading round out each volume. VERDICT A must-have for collections serving auto enthusiasts.

Roberts, Kelly. Cloud Computing. ISBN 9781916949546.
––––. GPS. ISBN 9781916949348.
––––. Networks. ISBN 9781916949386.
––––. Touch Screens. ISBN 9781916949461.
––––. Voice Recognition. ISBN 9781916949508.
––––. Wi-Fi. ISBN 9781916949423.
ea vol: 48p. (How High-Tech Changed the World). Cheriton. Jan. 2025. Tr $33.32.
Gr 5-9–This series thoroughly explains six aspects of computing in a visually engaging format. The cover design may be misleading, but the interior graphics are highly appealing. Each page features multiple short paragraphs, text boxes with side information, color photos, and background graphics, creating a dynamic layout that prevents readers from feeling overwhelmed by dense text. Sections are well-organized, with each topic broken down into easily digestible parts. For example, in the book on Wi-Fi, a page about radar includes four concise paragraphs covering its history, function, military uses, and everyday applications. This structured approach, along with an index, a glossary, and a further reading section, makes information easy to find and understand. VERDICT A strong addition for middle and high school libraries expanding their computer technology collections.

Two standout series offer exceptional appeal. “How High-Tech Changed the World” (Cheriton) is perfect for older readers, with its well-designed graphics, photos, and text boxes that break down complex topics into short, accessible paragraphs, making the information easier to understand. “Motorsports Encyclopedias” (ABDO) is a must-purchase for its extensive coverage of cars and racing, featuring stunning visuals and in-depth information rarely found in children’s books.

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