Disney Digital Books - The Next Level of E-Books
Do you remember those books that came with either a tape or a 45 record (depending on how old you are) that read aloud to you and beeped to tell you when to turn the page? I loved those when I was little. They gave me some independence when I was still too young to read myself, and they were fun even as I got older. When I got the chance to preview Disney Digital Books online, that's all I could think of: take those read-along books, add in some Disney magic and brand new technology and you've got something fun and educational.
Disney has launched what is, in essence, a web-based e-reader for kids. This growing library of more than 500 Disney titles is available via subscription service. In addition to being able to read books alone or with a parent, kids can listen to some of the collection a la the read along books of my youth, and even creatively manipulate some others by adding pictures and words.
At first glance, you may think that this service is most appropriate for the preschool and Kindergarten set who love Playhouse Disney and the classics. In fact, the Disney Digital Books collection has a wide range of titles including more sophisticated chapter books appropriate for the middle school crowd who love the drama of Hannah Montana and the adventure of Jack Sparrow from Pirates of the Caribbean.
"It is imperative that we, as a publisher, promote reading in every medium where our readers are and to expand the ways in which we deliver meaningful reading experiences to children," said Jeanne Mosure, Senior Vice President, Group Publisher, Disney Publishing Worldwide. "Disney Digital Books furthers our core mission of getting kids to read more as it combines the stories and characters kids love with the most innovative technology and features. Our hope is to provide families with new and exciting reading experiences while reaching those reluctant readers as well."
Additional features on the site include a point-based reward system, a customizable virtual room, quizzes and a built-in dictionary. This is not your parents' read-along book collection. (I should add that the site has just launched and there a few kinks they're working out.)
Subscription costs are $79.95 for an annual subscription or $8.95 per month. The rate includes a parent account and accounts for up to three children in your household. Gift subscriptions are also available.
If you're interested in learning more about Disney Digital Books, I invite you to do the following:
- Read my full review of Disney Digital Books
- Get a special peek with Disney Publishing President Russell Hampton today (September 29) 1PM EST (and a free week-long subscription!)
- Try the free trial (access to 8 pre-selected books)
- Enjoy a gallery of sample pages from Disney Digital Books
Comments
This sounds wonderful. I love e-books myself but I enjoy them because I have a small hand held reader.
I assume this service would put the kids in front of the computer instead of a cozy couch?
The only thing holding me back though, is the cost. Almost $80 for the year is steep.
Yeah, the price may be prohibitive for a lot of families, but on the other hand a few months’ gift subscription could make a nice gift from out-of-town family members.
And, yes, it’s an online service. Then again, some families may be curling up on their couches with netbooks! It’s definitely a different experience.
When Disney does something, they usually do it well. I will not be using the service for my grandchildren, however. When they come to see me, I already have to fight to keep them off the computer. I’m in favor of that aforementioned cozy couch with a stack of books. I can see, however, how the service could stimulate reading for children who reside in a household full of busy people.
I would like to see something like this on a Kindle, or something similar. Story book at bedtime is better on the sofa or on the bed, not in front of the computer.