A Computer Called Katherine

By Suzanne Slade, Veronica Miller Jamison (illustrator),

Book cover of A Computer Called Katherine: How Katherine Johnson Helped Put America on the Moon

Book description

The inspiring story of NASA mathematician Katherine Johnson (the subject of the hit movie Hidden Figures).

Katherine Johnson grew up during a time when women were not encouraged to excel in the fields of math and science, and when African-Americans were heavily discriminated against. But she was so good at…

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Why read it?

1 author picked A Computer Called Katherine as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

Books about unknown or unsung heroes draw me in like no other, so I especially enjoyed this picture book about black mathematician Katherine Johnson, who calculated the trajectory of the early space flights of the 1960s. Johnson not only broke civil rights barriers, but also broke through gender expectations to work and excel in a job traditionally held by men.  Her determination and excellence will inspire young readers to consider equality, justice, and the discipline required for achievement, especially in math.

From Kristy's list on for kids who love space.

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