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2011 Best Book Apps for Kids

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 VAN GOGH AND THE SUNFLOWERS
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 21, 2011
Kirkus Star VAN GOGH AND THE SUNFLOWERS
developed by Auryn Inc., by Laurence Anholt, illustrated by Laurence Anholt
"An exceptionally bright and beautiful masterpiece. (iPad storybook app. 6-12)"
A spectacular iPad adaptation of Anholt's children's book about van Gogh, his art and his friendship with a French family. Read full book review >
Cover art for BIG LITTLE BROTHER
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 19, 2011
Kirkus Star BIG LITTLE BROTHER
by Kevin Kling, illustrated by Chris Monroe, developed by Mighty Media
"At last, an iPad storybook so good it doesn't need additional narrative options or games or technological wizardry to distract from its flaws. Because there are none. (iPad storybook app. 3-6)"
All Kevin wanted was a baby brother. Until he got one. Read full book review >
Cover art for THE BUTTON AT THE BOTTOM OF THE SEA
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 11, 2011
Kirkus Star THE BUTTON AT THE BOTTOM OF THE SEA
by Henrik Van Ryzin, Denise Van Ryzin, developed by Monster Costume
"Lucky for the developers that Bartleby's books are worth the wait. This app series continues to delight; it feels innovative and well-told at the same time, a tricky balance. (iPad storybook/puzzle app. 4-10)"
A continuation of the charmingly playful series about button-collecting, bowler-hat–wearing Bartleby, this volume is no less winning than the first even as it adds more locales and characters. Read full book review >