Books2download has launched an interactive picture book for iPad called Timo and the Magical Picture Book. The app promises to offer you more than a humorous story. It actually intends to get the reader involved and be a part of the story. Is it good? How far has it succeeded? Let’s find out-
The story revolves around Timo and his family. One day, Timo receives a picture book from his uncle Nick. It’s a magical book, as anyone who opens it will get inside it. Also the reader is are not supposed to shake the book or else it will cause mayhem.
The story is written by Rian Visser, author of over 50 children’s books. Kids will find the story appealing and humorous and will surely connect with the character. Now, let’s look into the technical aspects of the app-
The app supports two languages: English and Nederlands. You have the option to listen or read the 21 pages story. The pages are pretty colorful with good animations. When you read the story, you can hear the special effect sounds whereas while listening there is a voice-over which will take you through the entire book. The app allows you to jump to pages. After a few pages into the story: when Timo is inside the book, you can use interactive elements like shake, swipe, turn, tap and blow to get involved. You can move objects using various sensors. The fun part is the blow effect on Timo. You can blow into the microphone of iPad and make Timo grow big as a balloon. Kids are going to love it.
Verdict: An excellent app for parents and kids to enjoy together. The only hitch is that it takes a couple of readings before you actually get to understand the animations and manipulations part of the book. Once you get the hang of it, you and the kids can really have a blast, every time you read the book.
Screenshots from the app :
| App Name: Timo and the Magical Picture Book |   |
| App Category:Books | |
| Price: $4.99 |  |
| Developer: Books2download |
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