The digital revolution widens access to illustrated books
In the Tales for Great Grandchildren app we have sought to preserve the quality experience of an illustrated book
The internet 'works' because of the digital revolution. As I have written before, that revolution is spawning new art forms, of which we are only beginning to see the possibilities.
I have had great fun helping to make an iPad app for Tales for Great Grandchildren – the first app published by JJ Books. The app, due for release in early 2012, will feature the stories read aloud by me, and Daniela's illustrations will be 2D animated with sound effects. The app will also feature both Daniela and me talking about our work.
Transforming the book into a new format has required hard work, careful thought, and some trial and error. But we have not attached digital ‘bells and whistles’ for the sake of it, and have aimed to maintain the peaceful experience of being spellbound by a book.
Reading and illustrations are old-fashioned pleasures, but the digital revolution makes them available to a greater number of people by lowering costs. Tablet computers are currently expensive, but I am sure that like other electronic goods, they will become increasingly affordable in future, even ubiquitous. I’ve been involved with political campaigning and e-democracy initiatives in the past, and find an echo of these experiences in my move into digital publishing.
Next year we will publish more stories, and both Daniela and I will write/illustrate to make creative use of these new possibilities.
Readers Comments
Good luck with this project. It sounds successful already; I hope it attracts the readership you want. I like your quiet and considered approach.
Thank you! JJ
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