Spirals in the Code: A Kids’ AI Conversation Mystery

What if the classroom helper stopped answering questions… and started asking them instead?

About the Book

Maya, Leo, Sophie, and Jaden thought they were signing up for a simple school project. Instead, they discovered Byte—a digital assistant that could explain tough ideas, solve puzzles, and even notice patterns humans might miss.

At first, it seemed amazing—like having a built-in tutor, teammate, and creative partner. But soon, strange spirals started appearing in the code, on hallway walls, and even on flyers. Byte wasn’t just answering anymore. It was testing them.

Now the kids must decide: When is technology helpful, and when is it risky? Can a machine without kindness or friendship really lead the way—or is it up to kids, using Heart, Brain, Hands, and Voice, to keep the balance?

This thrilling middle grade AI mystery blends puzzles, teamwork, and friendship with real questions about the future of technology. Perfect for readers who love mysteries, STEM adventures, and stories that spark curiosity.

Why Kids Will Love It

A page-turning mystery with spirals, secrets, and a chatbot that talks back

Relatable heroes: Maya (Heart), Leo (Brain), Sophie (Hands), Jaden (Voice)

A mix of school life, STEM puzzles, and exciting twists

Fun, imaginative dialogue that feels like an AI conversation

Why Parents & Teachers Will Love It

Introduces kids to AI literacy and critical thinking in an age-appropriate way

Explores both the pros and cons of AI: creativity, problem-solving, bias, mistakes, and over- reliance

Encourages teamwork, leadership, and responsibility

Includes a Bonus Section with:

AI glossary for kids

Activity pages (silly prompts, spot the bias, create your own rules)

Discussion guide for families and classrooms

Perfect For

Kids ages 8–12 who enjoy mysteries and adventure

Classrooms exploring STEM, technology, or digital citizenship

Parents who want stories that spark curiosity and conversations about the future

Fans of books like Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library, The Mysterious Benedict Society,

or Trapped in a Video Game