This post is part of the TOC podcast series. You can also subscribe to the free TOC podcast through iTunes.
Children’s book apps are among the most popular products in the iTunes app store. Persian Cat Press recently released one called “The Gift,” and it’s turning a lot of heads. “The Gift” was written specifically for the iPad, so it’s not a repurposed product that originated in print. In this interview with Jos Carlyle, Persian Cat Press creative director, we learn more about what goes into the creation of a successful children’s book app.
Key points from the full video interview (below) include:
- Exciting times for multi-sensory content — The new opportunities touch screens like the iPad offer content producers are seemingly endless. [Discussed at the 1:00 mark.]
- Story first, interactivity second — The story is written first, of course, but the app’s interactivity can’t be treated as a last-minute add-on. The reader’s interaction must be carefully woven into the story so the two are seamless. [Discussed at 8:14.]
- Multiple reading scenarios have to be considered — The app might be read by a parent to a child, or it might just be used by a child on his or her own. Various features are included to allow either option, but they have to be implemented in a manner that doesn’t feel awkward or obtrusive. [Discussed at 9:00.]
- Addressing the discoverability problem — Persian Cat Press has taken matters into their own hands. Besides networking with popular bloggers and reviewers, they’ve created a free app called Cat-Nav that reviews apps and helps make them more visible. [Discussed at 15:20.]
- What’s the “right” price? — It’s unfortunate, but important, to realize that book apps are competing with other types of apps, and customers have been conditioned to expect cheaper pricing across the board. The result is a richer, more dynamic product than something similar in print but at a lower price than print … at least for now. [Discussed at 16:50.]
You can view the entire interview in the following video.
Jos Carlyle will be speaking at TOC Bologna on March 18th . Registration is currently open, but the event is likely to sell out, so be sure to buy your ticket soon.
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