This week we take a look at the app debut for Marc Brown's Arthur, an app that shares a Chinese take on Goldilocks and the Three Bears, and one that teaches kids math.
Title: Arthur Goes Green
Publisher: ScrollMotion
Release date: April 23, 2011
Price: $.99 for iPhone or iPad, for a limited time
Background: Arthur creator Marc Brown narrates this story, which was published as a picture book this spring, in which Arthur tackles an environmentally themed class project. Eight additional Arthur apps, created by ScrollMotion and Marc Brown Studios, are planned as part of the Arthur Reads collection of apps.
Features: In addition to listening to Brown's narration, users can record and play back their own narration for the story. Readers can also color in scenes and solve jigsaw puzzles
Title: The Three Pandas
Publisher: See Here Studios
Release date: April 23, 2011
Price: $3.99 for iPad
Background: Based on the tale of Goldilocks and the Three Bears, the book transports readers to a bamboo forest and the home of three adorable panda bears. This is See Here’s third iPad Tickle Book app.
Features: Viewable in both English and Chinese, the app has “Read to Me” and “Read Myself” options. Readers can learn more about pandas through an educational page and links within the app. They can record their own voiceover by tapping the microphone icon. There are more than 60 touchable interactions in 30 illustrated storybook pages, animated film-like scenes, and a full orchestral score and musical sound effects. A portion of the proceeds from the app will go toward panda conservation efforts.
Title: MathiGo
Publisher: Design Innovation
Release date: March 21, 2011
Price: $1.99 for iPhone, iPod Touch, or iPad
Background: The app’s creator, Judith Bender, holds a Ph.D. in applied math.
Features: Ten skill levels; game modes for and addition, subtraction, multiplication or division; and timed and un-timed modes. A portion of all profits from the sales will be donated to non-profit organizations for the education of children.
To be included in this listing, please send us the app title, the book or other source for the app (if there is one -- original apps are fine, too), when it was released, price, background of the book (including such info as copies in print, when it was released, awards, and brief plot summary), and the interactive elements of the app. Send all apps and promo codes to Jim Milliot, and send news of children’s apps to Diane Roback as well.
