Putting kids books online to read is not a new concept, but with their usual flare, Disney is taking the idea to the next level with Disney Digital Books. Pulling from their extensive library, Disney's new service currently offers 500 of their children’s books on the subscription-based site.
More than just electronic books, the new service offers many extras, like an audio book feature that reads stories to kids and an interactive dictionary. “Disney Digital Books is an industry-defining service that Disney Publishing is uniquely qualified to deliver,” said Russell Hampton, President, Disney Publishing Worldwide according to a press release.
Disney Digital Taking Children’s Books to the Next Level
Disney Digital Books offers its subscription-based service for $8.95 a month or an annual option for $79.95. The family subscription allows accounts for up to three children. With each account, children can create their own personal page with a “My Space” page. A number of themes are available based on Disney properties, like The Mickey Mouse Clubhouse or Pirates of the Caribbean. The My Space page also lets children save their favorite books, build their own stories with the Build-A-Story option and they can read messages from parents and friends.
Disney puts emphasis on protecting children’s on the Internet, so this is a site parents can feel safe about. Although kids can leave messages for other Disney Digital users, it is with predefined messages or sharing their favorite books lists. This is not the social media option that older kids or adults are familiar with.
However parents and caretakers can leave encouraging messages which helps promote a love of reading. And that is the heart of what Disney’s Digital Books can offer.
Promoting Reading with Online Children’s Books
In addition to offering a variety of children’s books for different age levels, Disney Digital Books can make reading more fun for kids. Young readers can have stories read out-loud to them. Reluctant readers can start at the first reading level (there are three) and move up as they become more proficient. And when a word in unfamiliar, the interactive dictionary can pronounce and explain words. For other readers, there are trivia questions about the books and a reward system to challenge them to read more.
Disney offers a free trail of their service with up to eight books to view in all reading levels. The service is already filled with books about some of Disney’s most popular characters, like Winnie the Pooh, Hannah Montana, Snow White and Wall-E. Overall, this looks to be a great service for families with young children. As the service matures, Disney is sure to add more books from their extensive library.
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