Indeed, the
strength of this wonderfully informative book is that it anticipates the
questions about Artificial Intelligence or AI, that may or not be on the tips
of our collective tongues.
AI is not a
particularly jokesy topic or one that’s easy to navigate. The book does a deep
dive into many facets of AI, and importantly, it illustrates why we don’t need
to be afraid.
It cheerfully addresses questions such as Can Chat GPT do your homework? What is an algorithm and can it help you choose pizza? And other things, too – translating information into digestible, readable chunks of information.
The reality is that AI is a brilliant human invention found in nearly every modern device from our computers to our cars.
With discussions on ethics, bias and human nature, the book does delve into difficult
terrain which may elicit some brief moments of angst – but then, it also offers
large beacons of hope to head towards. There’s great respect and mindfulness of
the intended audience.
I
personally had a couple of senior moments where the ‘fun bubbles’ and ‘brain
boxes’ of information collided with other information to confuse me - but then,
I also sometimes need a teenager to turn my tv on. So, swings and roundabouts!
And indeed,
the simple and effective line illustrations throughout, steer the reader and
provide excellent signposts along the way for ease of navigation. Then, there
are coloured pages that give pops of interest to pique all the senses of
today’s discerning young readers.
This book is a most informative dive into Artificial Intelligence and how it
impacts our daily lives now, and into the future.
Very interesting stuff!
Title: Is My Phone Reading My Mind? The Real Facts About Artificial IntelligenceAuthor: Dr Matt Agnew
Illustrator: Astred Hicks
Publisher: Allen & Unwin, $19.99
Publication Date: 30 July 2024
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781761180446
For Ages: 8 - 12
Type: Junior Non-Fiction