The Internet is a blessing and a nightmare. We have access to so much information, but, also, we have exposure to distressing things that we don’t have much control over, such as the refugee crisis in Europe or the latest shooting here at home.
News outlets and social media seem to flourish on the sensational, but I much prefer the positive stories about people using all of this information around us to do good things. Give me the inspiring over the scandalous any day.
With that in mind, let me introduce you to Kaya Thomas. She’s a computer science major at Dartmouth University who saw a problem and used her brains and her ability to access information on the web to fix it.
Thomas always loved to read, but as a young girl, she struggled to find books with characters she could relate to – people of color who were more than just a stereotype. Thomas was, in her words, “black and nerdy.” She wanted to read about girls like her.
Unfortunately, many library displays and popular book lists don’t feature books written by people of color that feature characters of color. Thomas eventually discovered that plenty of books like that have been published, she just needed a better way to find them. And so did other readers.
In the summer of 2014, Thomas used her knowledge of programming to create the App WE READ TOO. Basically, the app helps readers find books with diverse characters. Readers can also suggest books to be added to the database.
Thomas hasn’t stopped with the app. She wants to empower other girls of color and help them embrace technology. She says on her site:
Knowledge is power and coding is an outlet to create technology that makes positive impacts on communities.
Girl power! If you’re interested in creating apps or learning more about technology, no matter what your gender or ethnic background is, Thomas suggests visiting these sites:
I’m also going to put in a plug for Girls Who Code, a nonprofit striving to close the gender gap in technology and engineering.
To learn more about Thomas, visit her website or this interview with her on Innov8tiv.com. You can also learn more at the We Read Too Facebook page .
Can you help me grow more good news on the Internet? Please share this story through social media, and, even better, tell us about another “feel good” story in the comments.
Thanks for stopping by!
What a great app. Now, there is little reason to say “I can’t find any books by ….” or “Where can I find writers of color?”
I hope librarians, teachers, and parents download the app so they can find good books for their inventory.
Thanks for sharing!
Isn’t it a fantastic idea? I’m sure lots of people will benefit. Thanks for stopping by.
What a great app! Just tweeted it. I’m all for any technology that supports reading!