Whether you are a novice, an explorer or an aficionado, the Pandora’s box that is artificial intelligence can seem, as Winston Churchill put it,
‘A riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma’.
The secretive matryoshka nesting dolls the author chooses to describe her narrative are a perfect metaphor.
Romy, Roby and the Secrets of Sleep is a rare combination of style with substance. Dr. Lauterbach has poured her vast understanding of sciences, inspirational storytelling and intelligent humour into the groundbreaking genre she has created.
If you crave small plates or a feast (undoubtedly the latter for roguish feline Romy),
this book will satisfy your appetite whilst whetting it for the next one. Unlike Schrödinger’s
moggy, Romy is wholly alive, whilst being opportunistically asleep – when, that is, allowed
to be by his knowledge-hungry companion’s robot Roby and avian interloper, Galina the
pigeon.
Embark on a wondrous journey with the charming family, friends and characters they
encounter in their quests. The author provides powerful learning resources to suit ages
8 – 15 years old and way beyond, helpfully organised to fit with inclination and aptitude.
Such original, engaging, smart literature should be a foundation of curricula
worldwide.
Here is my algorithm for enjoying it: open, peruse, read aloud, explore, delve, question, absorb – and marvel!
Christine Elliott, Chair, The Health and Care Professional Council, former Director Bletchley Park
One of the most critical challenges our society faces is a lack of skilled and motivated technology enthusiasts to tackle societal problems such as climate change, hunger, health care, and homelessness.
While it’s generally accepted that robotics, artificial intelligence, and related automation technologies can play an important role, how do we develop the next generations of leaders prepared for these challenges?
One of the answers is to start reaching young people earlier so they understand the roles technology can play and are excited to be part of the solutions. That’s why I’m so excited about this new series of “Romy and Roby” books from Dr. Anastassia Lauterbach aimed at young people between the ages of eight and fifteen.
Dr. Lauterbach’s skills as an educator and technologist are on full display in Romy, Roby and the Secrets of Sleep, the first book in the series. Young readers will find interesting stories along with excellent educational resources.
Hopefully, parents all over the world will use this book to educate and entertain their children. In many ways, our future depends upon it!
Jeff Burnstein, President, Association for Advancing Automation; Engelberger Award for Leadership, 2023
Welcome to «Romy, Roby and the Secrets of Sleep,» a book designed to take you on an exciting journey through the world of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Whether you’re a curious child or a wise elder, this book invites you to explore, learn, and grow together in a world increasingly shaped by AI.
We live in a time of incredible change, where AI is becoming a part of our daily lives. This can be both thrilling and a bit daunting. But remember, just as we are learning about AI, these intelligent machines are also learning from us. This mutual journey of discovery requires an open mind, curiosity, and a dash of courage.
AI is transforming how we live, work, and interact. It’s important for people of all ages to understand its potential. Here are some examples of how AI is already making a difference:
- Education: AI-powered tools make learning fun and engaging for kids, preparing them for a future where AI is everywhere.
- Work: AI can handle repetitive tasks, freeing people to focus on creative and important work. It can manage schedules, remind us of tasks, and even act as virtual friends.
- Business: Companies use AI to make smart decisions based on data, helping them adapt quickly to changes and manage risks better.
- Healthcare: AI assists doctors in diagnosing diseases faster and more accurately, and in creating personalised treatment plans.
To fully embrace these changes, we need to learn how to learn continuously. This might seem challenging, but it’s also an adventure! By approaching this journey with «Deliberate Calm»—applying a mindset of curiosity, openness, and resilience—we can adapt and thrive in this ever-changing world.
This book will help you understand what AI really is, demystifying the concept and making it accessible and fun. It’s the perfect time to start this journey. Enjoy the adventure, and I hope you find it as exciting and enriching as I have!
Happy learning!
Jacqueline Brassey PhD MA MAfN, Co-leader Healthy Workforces and Director of Research Science McKinsey Health Institute. Co-author of amongst others: “ Authentic Confdence“, “Deliberate Calm“, how to learn and lead in a volatile world and “The Best Version of Me“.