
This is a sweet, rhyming book about a cat that dreams of catching a goldfish. Little Punky Dunk watches a bird in it's cage and the fish in their tank longingly, wishing that he could change his diet to include something a bit fresher. In the end he dips his paw & nose in the water but only gets wet for his troubles.
This app is based on the public domain text and illustrations from a title published in 1912. The story is very short with light interactive animations. Most of pages have just a bit of movement of the images, although everything is well done with a crisp response and nicely integrated sound effects. Text is in a clear, easy to read font that highlights along with lovely narration. There is also a rather well-designed little game included where you fling little colored bubbles.
Overall this is a solidly made book app with a nice array of settings. Unfortunately, the story and illustrations feel dated, with a modern overlay of technical enhancements but no real digital translation. Young readers will enjoy playing with this book even if they are not well-engaged with the story itself. I found reading comprehension was difficult for my child, given the combination of distracting enhancements and somewhat antiquated phrasing. Older readers may find this title charming, however, for the nostalgia and novelty.
All reviews are of the app, not the platform/device. Based originally on iPad versions. Minor technical details may vary.
Author/Illustrator:
Anonymous
Developer:
Moo Goo Media, LLC
Length (time):
4 - 6 Minutes
Based on non-digital book: No
Allows Own Narration:
No
Uses Motion: No
Age: 4 - 8
Languages:
English •
Length (pages):
12 Pages
All the text and illustrations for this title can be previewed through Project Gutenberg:
Orientation: Portrait
Format: Universal
Options:
Narration On/Off, Play Game, Info, Hints, Page Guide, Home, Links to: Web, Facebook, Twitter, AppStore
App Release Date:
2011-09-22
Size: 14.41 MB
Version: 1.1.1
Lite Version Available: No