Tumble Into Reading
Whenever a resource comes along to support kids and reading, it’s worth taking a look at. If it happens to be an e-resource, available 24/7 and free to library patrons, what’s not to like?
I had become a fan of Scholastic’s BookFlix (loved the pairing of fiction with relevant nonfiction titles and all the educator resources) only to learn it was being replaced with TumbleBooks. Having a distinctly different appearance, the Tumblebooks format simulates using a handheld e-device vs. turning the pages of a book. From making your own “Playlist” (preloaded selections also available) or choosing Audio Books, navigation is kid friendly. The animated illustrations are full screen and text is highlighted while being narrated. Six sections to choose from include: Story Books (the best selection), Read-Alongs, Tumble TV (new), Puzzles & Games (aids reading comprehension), Language Learning (Spanish & French) and Nonfiction Books. There are popular titles by well-known authors and the collection keeps growing. (I was excited to see Graphic Novels in the Read-Alongs, only to see that none are available yet.) To sum it up, TumbleBooks provides a fun, engaging and interactive way to connect kids with reading.
I use summer reading at our library as an opportunity to introduce young readers to TumbleBooks, as I did with BookFlix. My goal is to keep the children interested and involved with reading. After all, there are many ways to enjoy a book. Both databases achieve this goal. Along with author, illustrator and publisher information there is reading level, reading time, book reviews and accelerated reading information provided. On another note, it is a valuable literacy tool to promote for classroom use as well!
Susan
Youth Services
CLAV