Review of Ada and the Supercomputer

[Diana Lowery]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Ada and the Supercomputer" by Doris Dobi.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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Doris Dobi is a very cunning individual. Her book, Ada and the Supercomputer, not only has a story that pre-teens will enjoy, but she has woven in lessons on computer science so craftily that those readers will be unaware that they are receiving a dose of education along with the narrative. Ada, the 12-year-old protagonist, is inquisitive and won't quit questioning until she receives an answer. Those answers create lessons on multiple subjects.

This 300-page novel is also in the coming-of-age genre. Ada is searching for the meaning of life after her mother's death. She is aided in her search by Max, a close friend; Lizzie, her aunt, and her father, Alan. The writer has developed all the characters in this tale so well that I forgot that I was reading a fictional story.

Dobi, who has a PhD in math, took eight years to write this book. Her goal was to celebrate strong women and inspire young girls. In addition to teaching some computer science facts, Dobi adds some historical lessons about uncelebrated women who have contributed to the field.

At first, I did not understand the significance of the cover, but it became clear in the fifth chapter. Since seeking the truth is such a major theme in this novel, I felt it was appropriate that I had to wait for the answer to be revealed. Aside from that slight negative, I had no other issues.

Even though this is for young adults, I was drawn to scrappy Ada. The situations she faced physically and emotionally are portrayed realistically. My rating is five out of five. It is geared toward pre-adolescent girls, but the strong character of Max will appeal to boys as well. Older teens who are technologically more advanced might feel the information about how computers work is too basic, but they will enjoy the feeling of superiority received from already knowing the information.

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Ada and the Supercomputer
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[Arnaud de clerck]

I tought it was gonne be a nice book but i did not like it

[Amy Luman]

I think it's really sneaky to include education in a novel (not really.) I also like that the unsung contributions of women to this field are highlighted. Thanks!

[Diana Lowery]

I think it's really sneaky to include education in a novel (not really.) I also like that the unsung contributions of women to this field are highlighted. Thanks!

Thank you, Amy. I gained quite a bit of knowledge by reading this book.

[Jennifer Coxon]

I love that there is an educational element built in, and even more so that it is expertly woven that you don't realise that it is an education. I think this is important in any book, but particularly significant in coming-of-age books. I also liked how realistic the characters are portrayed that you nearly forgot it was fiction - that is a skill. Great review.

[Kelvinna]

I appreciate the well-structured review. The author's excellent book and its intriguing title have piqued my interest, prompting me to add it to my bookshelf without a doubt.

[Kelvinna]

The reviewer's critique stands out for me, appreciating both the well-written review, the rating given, and the recommendation provided. I must emphasize the quality of this piece, thoroughly enjoying the content while reading it.