Malik's Coding Adventure

    By Yamirah Newsome

    Malik's Coding Adventure cover image

    10 Nov, 2024

    Painting your imagination...

    Malik sat cross-legged on the floor of his room, surrounded by vibrant posters of his favorite video games. His eyes were glued to the screen, fingers dancing across the console controller with the skill of a seasoned gamer. But even as he conquered another virtual challenge, something new buzzed in his mind. "I wonder how these games are made," he mused, setting the controller down and gazing thoughtfully at the ceiling. It was then he remembered his older cousin Darius, who was studying computer science in college.
    The next day, Malik found himself amid towering bookshelves at the local library, the afternoon sun casting a warm glow through the large windows. He approached Ms. Johnson, the friendly librarian with a knack for guiding young minds. "Hi, Ms. Johnson! Do you have any books on coding?" Malik asked eagerly. "Of course, Malik," she replied with a smile, leading him to a section filled with colorful coding books for beginners. "Start with this one. It's perfect for budding programmers like you."
    Malik visited Darius in his cluttered room, where the hum of computers and the glow of screens created an atmosphere of tech wizardry. "I heard you want to learn coding!" Darius exclaimed as Malik entered. "Yeah, I want to make my own games one day," Malik replied, his eyes shining with determination. "Let's start with something simple," Darius suggested, sliding his laptop over to Malik. "I'll show you the basics."
    Days turned into weeks, and Malik spent countless nights in his room, the glow of his computer screen lighting up his determined face. But learning to code wasn't easy; frustration often crept in when things didn't work out. "Why isn't this code running?" he groaned, running his hands through his hair. Yet, every time he felt like giving up, he remembered Ms. Johnson's encouraging words and Darius's guidance.
    Finally, the day arrived when Malik felt ready to share his creation. The community center buzzed with excitement as friends and neighbors gathered for a game night. Aisha and Jamal, his close friends, bounced with anticipation. "I can't wait to see what you've made!" Aisha exclaimed. "It's a game about our neighborhood," Malik explained, "with challenges and adventures inspired by our everyday lives."
    As the night unfolded, Malik's game came to life on the big screen, capturing the essence of his culture and dreams. The room filled with laughter and applause, and Malik felt a sense of pride swelling in his chest. "You've inspired us all, Malik," Jamal said, clapping him on the back. "This is just the beginning," Malik replied, smiling at his friends and the community that supported him. "Imagine what we can all create together."