Rounds: Parker Penguin
© 2012 Nosy Crow
The second in the a series of non-fiction apps that deal with life-cycles, Rounds: Parker Penguin lets children participate in a G-rated version of each stage of penguin reproduction, beginning with helping a male find a female. Next comes eggs, babies and so on... The entire experience is high in child control, playfully showing children how penguins develop through their reproductive cycle, completely without embarrassment, and letting them participate by cracking the egg (with a tap) or sliding toward the ocean (by tilting the screen). Because the app is based on three generations, you play the story three times, with different penguins (Parker, Parker's Son and Parker's Grandson), hence the word "rounds" in the title. It is similar in ways to a play with different actors using the same sets. As you explore, you discover penguin facts. Features include quality orchestrated background music that seems very relaxing. There are three reading level settings, and the text highlighting can be toggled on or off, in case you want the child to read by themselves. The app is illustrated by Barry Tranter; narrative is written by Emma Tranter. All in all, this is an excellent new addition to the eBook genre that is worth the $4.99. See also Rounds: Franklin Frog.
$4.99, iPad, iPhone
Teaches: science, life cycle of penguins, biology, reproduction
CTR Rating: 88%