Behind the Screens: How the internet works and how to make it work for you

Getting your first phone is a big moment – this illustrated guide empowers young people aged 9–13 to navigate the online world with awareness, responsibility and confidence.

The internet is one of the most life-changing inventions in history. But there are things happening behind the screens that are changing how we behave: influencing what we buy, what we’re interested in and how long we stay online. As we start using the internet and AI to do everything, it’s helpful to explore how the tech is using us a little too. Written by award-winning scientist Dr Niraj (Nij) Lal, host of the ABC’s kids’ podcast Imagine This, and illustrated by comic artist Aśka, Behind the Screens is the must-have guide to help young people be online in the best way possible.

This book explores:

data collection and digital surveillance
the power of algorithms
a future with artificial intelligence
the pros and cons of gaming and social media
how to be happy and safe online.

It answers questions like:

If YouTube, Instagram and TikTok are all free, how come their owners are some of the richest people on the planet?
Why is it so hard to stop scrolling?
How do I know who to trust on the internet?
How can I avoid being tracked by tech companies?