We also stock the Basic Companion Kit to go with this book
What is micro:bit in Wonderland?
micro:bit in Wonderland is a project book where you read a chapter from Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and then complete a project linked to the chapter. Most of the projects involve making or crafting something as well as coding. Some of them also include connecting additional electronics components to the micro:bit.
Learners use a BBC micro:bit mini computer to complete the projects along with some simple electronics components and everyday household and craft items.
The micro:bit is programmed with the Microsoft MakeCode editor in its drag and drop blocks mode.
Each project has a 'Make it Yours' section at the end where makers are encouraged to adapt the project to suit their interests and style.
The book contains 13 projects. There are also 3 bonus projects available for free as a taster.
Who are the authors?
The book is written by the directors of Tech Age Kids, Tracy and Elbrie, who bring a combination of technical and design skills.
Dr Tracy Gardner
Tracy Gardner has a Computer Science PhD. She has worked as a software engineer and software architect, including working for 10 years at IBM. Tracy has two children and now focuses on introducing technology to the next generation. Tracy is a director of Tech Age Kids. She also develops educational content for the Raspberry Pi Foundation. Between 2014 to 2017, Tracy taught Computing to Key Stage 2 children (aged 7-11). She volunteers at a Code Club and Coder Dojo.
Elbrie de Kock
Elbrie de Kock has an Interior Design degree and has worked in a number of different industries as a designer and digital marketer. Elbrie has three children. Her eldest son’s passion for computer programming inspired her to find opportunities for kids to learn to code. She uses her creative background and newly developed technology skills to develop projects that combine craft, coding and electronics. Elbrie is a director of Tech Age Kids and organises creative technology events for children and families. She volunteers at a Code Club and founded the local Coder Dojo.
Who is micro:bit in Wonderland for?
We always hesitate to put an age range of the book because all learners are different. The important part is that the book is for beginners to physical computing. The micro:bit safety recommendations suggest age 8+. Around 9-14 is the core age range that we developed the book for.
However, we also had adult beginners who are curious about technology in mind. We'd love for parents to learn coding and physical computing alongside their children. We've also discovered a category of older teens who somehow missed out on getting to grips with technology and are now a little nervous - the book works well as a gentle introduction for older beginners.
The book is child-friendly but not childish.
There's a lot of physical making in the book using paper, card, play dough, kitchen foil and optionally fabric, laser cutting, and 3D printing. It's a good way to broaden the horizons of kids who love coding and add some maker skills.
The book starts gently and gradually builds up the difficulty.
