Rules of Summer
© 2013 Wheelbarrow
Eighteen paintings are first presented by a rule, such as "never leave a red sock on the clothesline." Why? Because it might attract a giant red rabbit. Other rules include "never eat the last olive" and "never forget your password." Each reason for the rule is given by way of an abstract oil paintvrt presented in the book by the same name. The interesting thing about this app is how your view of the painting starts extremely zoomed in, calling your attention to just one element of picture (e.g., the red sock). If you touch the screen, you zoom out, gradually revealing the context of the picture. This simple but innovative navigation technique uses an element of surprise to keep you interest. Each painting is presented along with some sound effects and music, composed by Sxip Shirey. The menu uses icons, language is not needed. Weaknesses include a limited amount of content for a very large download. Once you've seen all the paintings, there's not much reason to go back. However, could be an excellent art appreciation experience for older children.
$6.49, iPad (954 MB)
Teaches: art, spatial relations
CTR Rating: 87.5%