For Better or Worse, Children's Books Migrate to iPad Apps

The Independent (UK): "Owners of iPads have been downloading new books at a rate of almost 77,000 a day – and manufacturer Apple already claims the device has won more than a fifth of the ebook market. ... Every major publisher of children's books is developing its titles for the iPad format, enabling children to access their picture books on screen. But, while adults are content with being able to turn pages on their electronic devices, publishers believe younger readers will demand high-quality graphics, traditional technology – including 'lift-the-flap' – and interactive applications. The result is a shift that could revolutionize the way children learn to read and appreciate books – and not always for the better. One publishing executive admitted last week that she feared many of the best-loved books could become more like films, leaving young readers 'more like viewers, rather than active participants in the experience of reading a book'."