Coding can often be a tricky task for young learners, especially for those who struggle to understand the new computer languages. However, Aryan Poduri, a 17-year-old high school student from California, wanted to make the process a tad easier for kids and hence, has self-published a children’s book titled GOAT Coder that introduces young readers to the basics of Python programming through engaging exercises, relatable analogies, and hands-on projects.
Released in April 2025, the book has sold over 2,000 copies and seeks to make coding approachable for children, especially as many young learners struggle to find clear starting points in the subject.
GOAT Coder: Inspiration and development
Poduri, who attends Stanford Online High School part-time and grew up in the tech-centric community of Mountain House, started coding early in life. Influenced by his parents’ careers in technology, he learned through school classes, YouTube tutorials, and personal projects—including building a web app called Voto Polo in middle school.
“That definitely had an impact because, around here, everyone is coding,” he said in an interaction with Business Insider. “That’s when I realised this could be a future for me.”
The idea for GOAT Coder came from observing his parents’ efforts to teach coding to his younger sister. “My parents were spending a lot of time just trying to help her understand,” Poduri explained. “I realise it’s because there aren’t really many resources. When you’re first understanding the concept of what goes behind screens, it’s hard to wrap your head around,” he added.
Over nine months, Poduri created his own curriculum, emphasising child-friendly explanations and fun projects like building games such as Wordle and Tic-Tac-Toe, while introducing concepts in AI, data science, and object-oriented programming.
“The first challenge was figuring out how I wanted to teach it,” he said. “It was almost like I had to make my own curriculum. It’s been years since I started coding, so I didn’t remember what I wanted to know or what really excited me.”
Despite the difficulties, Poduri enjoyed the process, stating, “I was having fun while doing it.”
Poduri’s future aspirations and impact
Poduri stresses the value of early exposure to coding as a viable career. “It’s important for people to know that coding is an option,” he said. “There are all these different careers. Firefighters, police, scientists, but software engineering is something that you might not think about. It’s important for people to know that coding is a big marketplace and it’s an option.”
Beyond writing, Poduri has interned at DataDios, co-authored two research papers on the company’s SmartDiff tool, and pursues hobbies like basketball and digital art. He designed the graphics and cover for his book himself.
Currently promoting GOAT Coder while applying to colleges, Poduri is considering a sequel. “One of my long-term career goals is to eventually become an entrepreneur,” he said. “I don’t want to be stuck to just coding. I really enjoy learning about new subjects and new things.”
GOAT Coder is available on Amazon and has been praised for making coding an exciting and accessible adventure for beginners.
