Miyoko and Ginny: How Playgrounds Can Spark the Next Generation of Engineers

Imagine a sunny afternoon, laughter filling the air, and the creak of swings. Now add a robot who can spin you on the merry-go-round, push you on the swing, and ride the teeter-totter with you. That’s exactly what readers get in There’s a Robot at My Playground by Dr. Carlotta A. Berry, illustrated by Anak Bulu. Part of the beloved There’s A Robot! series, this book introduces young readers to STEM through play, curiosity, and imagination.

CURIOSITY AND CREATIVITY THROUGH PLAY

Miyoko spins on the playground with her friends while Ginny pushes

The story follows Miyoko, an eight-year-old with a curious mind who loves to understand how things work. Her best friend? Ingenuity, affectionately called Ginny—a robot who’s always ready to lend a mechanical hand. Together, they explore the playground in ways that spark Miyoko’s fascination with engineering and problem-solving.

LESSONS IN PHYSICS, ENGINEERING & EMPATHY

What makes this story special is how it blends everyday childhood experiences with the excitement of robotics. Swinging, spinning, and teeter-tottering become more

Miyoko swings while Ginny pushes her

than play—they’re lessons in physics, engineering, and empathy. Miyoko’s dream to grow up and help people like Ginny shows young readers that engineering isn’t just about machines; it’s about making a positive impact in the world.

Dr. Berry’s writing is accessible and vibrant, while Anak Bulu’s illustrations bring every joyful playground adventure to life. The result is a picture book that not only entertains but inspires the next generation of engineers, especially young girls and children from underrepresented communities in STEM.

STEM EDUCATION THROUGH ROBOTS

Whether you’re a parent, educator, or robotics enthusiast, There’s a Robot at My Playground is a perfect reminder that curiosity, creativity, and a little mechanical magic can lead to big dreams. It’s more than a story about a robot—it’s a celebration of play, learning, and imagining a future where anyone can be an engineer.

There's a Robot At My Playground now available in the NoireSTEMinist®️ shop and everywhere that books are sold.

Miyoko hangs upside down on the monkey bars while Ginny watches