Darren designed and illustrated two picture books and a companion parent/teacher guide, written by Julie Darling. This engaging three book set provides caregivers and educators with the information they need to teach vocabulary and a basic understanding of computer science concepts to children ages 4-8. In Little Computer Scientists we join a group of friends as they explore the wonders of computer science, and in Little Hackers readers learn the story of how white hat hacker Zuri saves Grandpa’s computer from malware!
In addition to the picture books, an accompanying guidebook provides resources, games, and printable activities. Covering topics such as binary, ciphers, using the command line, programming languages, sequencing, the basics of how computer systems and networks work, what hacking is, how to avoid phishing, how to be a good digital citizen and how to stay safe online, this set provides a comprehensive education on the basics of computer science for early childhood learners (integrating the Computer Science Teachers Association K-2 standards), with no background knowledge necessary.
Written in accessible, easy to understand language and featuring a diverse cast of characters, these books will help you nurture and encourage a love and aptitude for STEM in curious children everywhere. They’re available through Routledge, Amazon, and wherever you buy your books.
Light in the Canyon
A year has passed since Halley’s mom died, but she still feels like she’s falling to pieces. Dad talks her into joining him at her uncle Gill’s house for yet another homemade science experiment (something to do with black holes and cosmic rays), but to their horror, his machine explodes in a flash of blue light.
Jamie finds himself increasingly isolated now that his brother Ash left for college—not long after his father left for forever. Out for a walk, he’s thinking about the book that Raina, the neighborhood librarian, gave him when there’s a sudden explosion down the street . . .
A few houses away, the blast hits Raina too. She’s joined by Halley’s dad, who can’t find his daughter—or his brother. Their search leads them first to Gill’s wrecked machine, then to a secluded farmhouse where a young girl died many years ago.
Where to buy
Light in the Canyon can be ordered from any book store and is available online wherever you buy books. If you’re in southeast Michigan, please consider supporting your community and buying independent! Book Love Bar in Ypsilanti, Serendipity Books in Chelsea, and Schuler Books in Ann Arbor currently have copies on shelves. If your local store doesn’t have a copy on hand, ask them to order some!
If you prefer to buy online, consider buying direct from the publisher, Slant Books. Or, support some of Darren’s favorite bookstores around the country: Powell’s Books in Portland, Oregon, Strand Books in NYC, Red Balloon Bookshop in St. Paul, Minnesota, or Elliott Bay Book Company in Seattle, Washington.
Copyright © Darren Cools 2026.
All rights reserved.
