Embark on a STEM adventure with Yaya! Our picture book series for ages 5-9 follows this fearless young builder as she tackles real-world challenges with creativity, determination, and her trusty Builder Crew.
Each book anchors learning in exciting hands-on projects that kids can relate to and be inspired by.
Authentic STEM Applications
Real engineering and scientific concepts presented in age-appropriate, engaging ways.
Diverse Representation
Stories centered around a confident Black girl and her diverse friends, showing all children they belong in STEM.
Growth Mindset
Characters model collaboration, reflection, and perseverance through challenges.
Titles in the Series
Yaya's BIG Build
When Yaya's clubhouse plans collapse, she discovers the best builds don't always follow the blueprint. Focuses on resilience and creative problem-solving.
Yaya and the Egg Bot Adventure
A breakfast-making robot goes haywire, teaching Yaya about debugging and redesigning. Explores engineering fundamentals and troubleshooting.
Yaya's Backyard Fix-Up
Transforming a messy yard into a community garden using simple machines. Highlights levers, pulleys, teamwork, and environmental care.
Yaya and the Eggineer Expedition
At the Spring Fair's robot competition, Yaya and Emma's homemade bot faces high-tech rivals. Focuses on iteration and friendship.
Educational Focus
1
3
1
Problem-Solving Skills
Strategic thinking through real-world challenges
Engineering Design Process
Planning, testing, and iterating solutions
3
STEM Foundations
Simple machines, robotics, and scientific method
Each book intentionally incorporates key STEM concepts while encouraging documentation through journaling, blueprint sketching, and reflective thinking—making abstract engineering principles concrete for young learners.
Skills Developed
Strategic Thinking
Planning and executing multi-step projects
Communication
Expressing ideas and listening to others
Growth Mindset
Learning from mistakes and persisting through challenges
Collaboration
Working effectively with diverse teams
Through Yaya's adventures, children develop crucial 21st-century skills that extend far beyond the engineering concepts at the heart of each story.
Perfect For
STEM Classrooms
Ideal for K-3 teachers looking to integrate engineering and design thinking into their curriculum through engaging literature.
Libraries & Maker Spaces
Perfect for storytime programs that can extend into hands-on making activities, bringing the books' concepts to life.
Home Learning
Each book includes extension activities that families can do together, reinforcing concepts through kitchen-table engineering.
Building the Future, One Story at a Time
Yaya builds more than inventions—she builds confidence, community, and imagination.