Thomas fans are in for a treat, as this app delivers the same predictable experience they relish in video and book form, gently augmented with interactive enhancements.
The story is set into motion when speedy Spencer arrives on the island of Sodor for the summer to help build a house for the Duke and Duchess. In an ill-advised race with Spencer, Thomas runs off the tracks into the bushes, where he discovers a mysterious abandoned engine named Hiro. While Thomas and his friends do their best to help the old engine, Spencer learns that it is better to be a friend than a show-off. Enhanced with user-friendly interactive features, this app has multiple touch animation, video, puzzles, painting activities and matching games. Even the functional aspects are fun; the navigation bar swings up and down like a railway gate, for instance. The help button has clear and thorough instructions, so even the least tech-savvy adult can easily navigate. The text is read by familiar voices from the TV series and can be paused while children play with the interactive features on every page.
A solid, interactive reading experience for kids who are more inclined to watch a video than to pick up a book. (iPad storybook app. 4-7)
