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2011 Best Book Apps for Kids: For the Very Youngest Readers

Cover art for ANOTHER MONSTER AT THE END OF THIS BOOK
CHILDREN'S
Released: Nov. 23, 2011
Kirkus Star ANOTHER MONSTER AT THE END OF THIS BOOK
developed by Callaway Digital Arts
"From Elmo's opening tutorial to the closing ticklefest, a treat and a half for preschoolers and parents alike. (learning activities section for adult sharers, thumbnail image index) (iPad storybook app. 3-5)"
In an equally rousing sequel to The Monster at the End of This Book (print edition, 1971; app version, 2011) Elmo drags a reluctant Grover through one page after another toward a second "monster." Read full book review >
Cover art for BARNYARD DANCE
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 26, 2011
Kirkus Star BARNYARD DANCE
by Sandra Boynton, illustrated by Sandra Boynton, developed by Loud Crow Interactive
"What at first may seem like an over-the-top adaptation of a simple board book manages to retain the small-scale charms of the original while offering many new ways to enjoy one rollicking hootenanny. (iPad board-book app. 1-5)"
Packed with silly, playful animation and perfectly fitting music and narration, this adaptation of Boynton's board book gets the tone and whimsy just right. Read full book review >
Cover art for PAT THE CAT
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 22, 2011
Kirkus Star PAT THE CAT
by Jacqui Hawkins, Colin Hawkins, illustrated by Jacqui Hawkins, Colin Hawkins, developed by Brightside Mobile
"This irresistible app gets everything right, proving that simplicity is sometimes best. (iPad storybook app. 2-7)"
Based on the picture book of the same name, this charming app is a flawless combination of music, sound effects, narration and interactive elements. Read full book review >
Cover art for GO AWAY, BIG GREEN MONSTER!
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 8, 2011
Kirkus Star GO AWAY, BIG GREEN MONSTER!
by Ed Emberley, illustrated by Ed Emberley, developed by Night & Day Studios
"A natural and seamlessly designed extension of a modern classic, certain to be more durable in this form than the easily destroyed paper original to boot. (iPad storybook app. 3-6)"
Understated but effective animations and interactive effects boost a long-standing favorite into the storytime stratosphere. Read full book review >
Cover art for HANNAH HABEEBEE MCHATS
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 13, 2011
Kirkus Star HANNAH HABEEBEE MCHATS
by Bronwyn Callander, illustrated by Bronwyn Callander
"Another tip-top turn from the creator of Treetop Ted (2011). (iPad storybook app. 2-5)"
The newest of the alliterative Frubeez apps introduces hat-happy Hannah, a googly-eyed lass with a taste for rib-tickling toppers. Read full book review >
Cover art for POP-IT
CHILDREN'S
Released: July 7, 2011
Kirkus Star POP-IT: AT HOME WITH APPA AND DAD
by Raghava KK, illustrated by Raghava KK
"A first-rate mind expander, this app rewards repeat visits and depicts several family constellations with irresistible intimacy and good humor--all the while featuring uncommonly inventive art and software design. (iPad informational app. 4-9, adult) "
A set of wordless domestic tableaux as rich in content as they are hilarious, presented in deliciously extravagant visuals stocked with clever interactive features. Read full book review >