
"Bliss to you. Bliss to you! Is me, who is dog. Trixie Koontz, happy dog," begins this tale told by one tail-waggingly happy canine. In between writing chilling thrillers for adult readers, author Dean Koontz has been busy over the past decade loving one very special dog named Trixie, who is the inspiration for this delightful digital title. I find this softer side of Koontz very appealing, producing a series of lovely children's titles in print. Trixie, a beautiful Labrador, tells this story in the first-person (or first-dog to be precise).
"Dog is the best of the best things to be," Trixie tells the reader, explaining all the wonderful aspects of her doggie life. She has a friend named Jinx as well and a number of doggie experiences to share with young readers. Exceptional illustrations, by Janet Cleland, tell Trixie's story, incuding a whole host of funny cats, people and even birds that inhabit Trixie's fascinating world. Most of these illustrations contain interactive elements that 'spring' to life when touched, making for a fun read (although not much reinforces the storyline).
As an app, this book is technically sophisticated and full of flexibility, including the ability to personalize Koontz's title (published in print in 2009). After re-tooling the story (perhaps with your own dog in the starring role?), you can then record the new version with your own narration, making this a title that has exceptional replay value. You can even change the page layout & illustrations, including coloring it yourself. There are also nice settings that include audio options, page guide and intuitive navigation throughout this nicely adapted presentation from Auryn Inc.
Overall this is another outstanding digital app from Auryn ... one of dozens of titles they've produced that provide wonderful digital content that is customizable depending on the reader's needs. I found the original narration and text to be more than enough to make this a 'keeper' on my personal iPad and I suspect many a pet lover will agree. The title even includes several fun extras, like a video introduction from the author. Recommended!
All reviews are of the app, not the platform/device. Based originally on iPad versions. Minor technical details may vary.
Author/Illustrator:
Dean Koontz/Janet Cleland
Developer:
Auryn, Inc
Length (time):
8 - 10 Minutes
Based on non-digital book: Yes
Allows Own Narration:
Yes
Uses Motion: No
Age: 3 - 8
Languages:
English •
Length (pages):
21 Pages
Not every soul on earth can be so lucky to arrive as a dog. At least that's the assertion of Trixie, in "I, Trixie, who is dog." "Sorry you are not dog, Not everyone can be," concludes this happy labrador. Some of the creatures in the world must be other than dogs, if only to serve dogs. Like people who feed dogs, pet dogs and scratch, chase and play catch with dogs.
"Not everyone should be, or could be, or woul be a dog," according to Trixie. Some must be cats, birds, cows, sheep, skunks, etc. Considerations include the abilitity to make ice cream, give dogs something to laugh about and even belly rubs. Should a dog, could a dog ... drive a car ... or drive a bus?
You'll have to read this book to find out!
Orientation: Landscape
Format: iPad
Options:
Read to Me, Read Myself, AutoPlay, Extras, Personalization (Record Narration & Change Text), Links to: AppStore, Email, Web
App Release Date:
2011-12-13
Size: 107.08 MB
Version: 1.0.2
Lite Version Available: Yes