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Best Book Apps of 2012: For Middle-Grade Readers

Apps for upper-elementary through middle school-age children.

Cover art for THE LEGEND OF MOMOTARO
CHILDREN'S
Released: Nov. 2, 2012
Kirkus Star THE LEGEND OF MOMOTARO
adapted by Corey Finkle, illustrated by Jason Nemec, Thom Adams, developed by Ghost Hand Games
"A fine version, formal but never stiff, and seamless both in presentation and software design. (iPad storybook app. 7-10)"
With help from a trio of squabbling animals a young boy born from a giant peach takes on a squad of ogres in this unusually elegant rendition of the popular Japanese folktale. Read full book review >
Cover art for LOLA AND LUCY'S BIG ADVENTURE
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 25, 2012
Kirkus Star LOLA AND LUCY'S BIG ADVENTURE
by Jane Jensen, Robert Holmes, developed by Signus Labs, Pinkerton Road
"A doggy road trip with nary a dull moment…no bull. (free sampler in iTunes) (iPad storybook app. 5-9)"
Spectacular illustrations and digital diversions drive this sweet tale of two Vermont bulldogs in search of a purpose. Read full book review >
Cover art for LIL' RED
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 27, 2012
Kirkus Star LIL' RED
by Brian Main, illustrated by Brian Main
"In a sea of interactive homogeny, this is a rare gem. (for iPad 2 and above) (iPad storybook app. 1-5)"
A refreshingly distinctive take on the classic European fairy tale. Read full book review >
Cover art for CLARA BUTTON AND THE MAGICAL HAT DAY
CHILDREN'S
Released: July 26, 2012
CLARA BUTTON AND THE MAGICAL HAT DAY
by Amy de la Haye, illustrated by Emily Sutton, developed by MAPP Editions
"Not every reader will share Clara's strong affinity for fashion, but there's no denying the beauty of the showcased. (iPad storybook app. 4-12)"
What begins as a simple story about a girl trying to restore her grandmother's torn hat becomes an unexpectedly detailed look at fashion treasures from a famous British museum. Read full book review >
Cover art for THE VOYAGE OF ULYSSES
CHILDREN'S
Released: July 3, 2012
Kirkus Star THE VOYAGE OF ULYSSES
developed by Elastico srl
"An inventive and entertaining introduction to the classic. And that kiss at the end: perfect. (iPad epic app. 10 & up)"
A delightfully entertaining telling of the tale of brave Ulysses. Read full book review >
Cover art for A TALE OFF THE TOP OF MY HEAD
CHILDREN'S
Released: June 9, 2012
Kirkus Star A TALE OFF THE TOP OF MY HEAD
by Séverine Vidal, illustrated by Claire Fauché, developed by La Souris Qui Raconte
"An outstanding, seamless combination of evocative art, poetic writing and ingeniously designed digital enhancements that mature audiences in particular (but not exclusively) will find profoundly moving. (thumbnail index) (iPad picture-book app. 8-10, adult)"
A centenarian who has just lost everything--nearly everything--reflects on his childhood and his chief regret in a poignant but wonder-filled memoir. Read full book review >