In my job I've heard professionals in tech, from C-level executives to everyone in between, say they want their own kids to learn more about Linux[1] and open source[2]. Some of them seem to have an easy time with their kids following closely in their footsteps. And some have a tough time getting their kids to see what makes Linux and open source so cool. Maybe their time will come, maybe it won't. There's a lot of interesting, valuable stuff out there in this big world.
Either way, if you have a kid or know a kid that may be interested in learning more about making something with code or hardware, from games to robots, this list is for you.
15 books for kids with a focus on Linux and open source
Adventures in Raspberry Pi[3] by Carrie Anne Philbin
The tiny, credit-card sized Raspberry Pi has become a huge hit among kids—and adults—interested in programming. It does everything your desktop can do, but with a few basic programming skills you can make it do so much more. With simple instructions, fun projects, and solid skills, Adventures in Raspberry Pi is the ultimate kids' programming guide! (Recommendation by Joshua Allen Holm[4] | Review is an excerpt from the book's abstract)
Automate the Boring Stuff with Python[5] by Al Sweigart
This is a classic introduction to programming that's written clearly enough for a motivated 11-year-old to understand and enjoy. Readers will quickly find themselves working on practical and useful tasks while picking up good coding practices almost by accident. The best part: If you like, you can read the whole book online. (Recommendation and review by DB Clinton[6])