Apps

Gr 9 Up—As when eating a rich dessert, it's best to remember to start with small bites with this app, a deep and satisfying examination of a powerful piece of music...

Should babies be exposed to apps? Rachel Payne responds to a comment on her "Are Learning Apps Good for Babies?" piece. Is removing a book from a required reading list a form of censorship? One reader questions the inclusion of Sherman Alexie'sThe Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian on a sixth-grade reading list.

This holiday sampler features some familiar characters and an opportunity for kids use their math skills.

Critters glide, jiggle, cavort, and giggle as confetti flies in Loud Crow Interactive's latest app by Sandra Boynton, 'But Not the Hippopotamus.'

An awe-inspiring new app from Touch Press offers a look at the history of animation through all 53 of Disney's animated productions. For students, there's a lot to learn here about crafting a good story in any medium.

Teachers looking to share a short story in an interactive format should take a look at Midnight Feast, the latest production from Slap Happy Larry. It's a haunting tale that will appeal to older elementary students, teens, and teachers alike who will all find different delights and messages within. It also comes with educator resources—a 17-page online PDF linked to the app.

Ancient civilizations are topics where school studies and kids' interests meet. Two new apps by Kids Discover explore the worlds of Egypt and Greece highlighting stories of mummies and pharaohs, gods and goddesses, and a legendary horse hiding warriors at the gates of Troy.

The annual Scholastic Art and Writing Awards is accepting original works in 28 categories. Terri Soutor, former vice president at Lerner Publishing Group, a sister company to Brain Hive and a key player in the formation of the company, has been named Brain Hive’s president. Storybots founders Gregg and Evan Spiridellis launch Educade, a portal of free, ready to use lesson plans paired with learning tools. The International Reading Association has announced some of the renowned authors speaking at its 59th Annual Conference in May. Krup has announced a teacher's lounge makeover contest.

This month's featured apps include some familiar characters, a story that has seen a number of awe-inspiring incarnations, and a nonfiction title that illuminates science concepts.