Does slow and steady still win the race? In this extended version of the timeless children’s tale, there’s a hare more to the story...and to the answer.
The story opens with a recap of the familiar tale. In the wake of his humiliation, the Hare seeks counsel from the wise old Owl (depicted as a psychoanalyst, with the Hare on his couch) and decides to challenge the Tortoise again. The Tortoise, an athlete/celebrity in the wake of his victory, fields calls all day and has a throng of fans. He exercises regularly, riding his stationary bike and practicing yoga. So when the Hare calls, wanting a rematch, the Tortoise is happy to oblige. Will the Hare learn to pace himself, as the Owl wisely suggests, or will he push himself too hard and lose again? Although its pace is at times tortoise slow, the 34-page app features 90 interactive elements that add depth and texture. Kids will love hearing the Hare snore under the tree and seeing his eyes pop when he loses to the Tortoise. Parents will grin at the cover of Good Sport magazine. The race action, well supported by character-appropriate music, is in mini-movie format, with continuous action and shadowing. In fact, music is one of the app’s best features, the tempo framing the action of the story, page by page.
Overall, perseverance, patience and good sportsmanship rule the day in this colorful sequel. (iPad storybook app. 4-7)
