My First Story Reader
© 2006 Publications International, Ltd.
Affordable and easy to use, this $20 electronic book reader is an excellent bridge between printed and spoken language for very young children. Like earlier editions of the last year's Story Reader, the product gives even the youngest child success. Just open the magnetic cover of the reader to hear a narrator read whatever page the book happens to open on. There is no need to register a page, or "press the green GO button," as required with the LeapPad. There isn't even an On/Off switch. Controls consist of a volume dial, a toggle switch for changing between "Read To Me" and "Question/Answer" modes on any given page, and three light-up push buttons. Another new feature is the inclusion of three light-up, shape buttons, used to answer story questions such as "What shape is the moon?" or "Which button is the color of the sky behind Eeyore?" The stories, while lacking in any depth, contain age-appropriate themes and quality narration. Child control is very high—at any point a page can be turned or a button can be pressed, to yield a sound or associated narration. How does it work? Each page has a uniquely shaped magnetic film embedded inside of it so the reader can match the narration with the page. This improved page sensing technology enabled Publications International to put as many as three 14-page books on one cartridge. The Reader comes with three Baby Einstein stories already in memory, so no cartridge is required for these particular titles. Faults include the lack of a headphone jack, and we noticed that the rounded plastic case rocks on a flat table. Also, children may need help changing cartridges, or to snap new books into place. But these are minor problems. Additional books are sold in sets of three for $15. Each set includes three 14-page books and one ROM cartridge--one with Sesame Street characters and the other with Winnie the Pooh. Both are of good quality. This is an excellent early language experience for any price; but is especially good at $20.
$20, Smart Toy
Teaches: reading, language, literacy, letter/word association
CTR Rating: 94%