The classic lullaby gains some interactive possibilities but loses its magic in the playing.
The titular song is the quintessential nursery classic, a simple, sentimental lyric—some would call it a prayer—that beautifully represents childlike wonder and the mystery of being seen and blessed by God. Many writers have expanded on its simple beauty, which probably explains why it is still alive today. Leshnick’s interactive version attempts to combine real-world things and people (Mommy’s purse, Daddy’s shaving cream, Grandma’s cupcakes and Grandpa’s slippers, among others) with the imaginary world (flying witches and monsters in the mirror) for a whimsical bedtime experience. Each of the five pages contains merry mischief to make, but with lackluster watercolor illustrations and a tinny musical backdrop, this dream falls flat. The music can be turned off, but this turns off the narration and blocks display of the text as well. Of further concern for the value-conscious, the free version of the app contains ads that occupy the bottom of the screen; an in-app purchase removes them.
Just singing the song the old-fashioned way is still the best way to go. (iPad storybook app. 2-5)
