FREE for a limited time – Trixie and Jinx, a story for kids by New York Times bestselling author Dean Koontz. Trixie, the main character of the book, is Dean Koontz’s much-loved golden retriever. In the story, Trixie and Jinx the dachshund are best friends. Jinx goes on vacation with his family and Trixie discovers that no one can take his place. This story is wonderful – the perfect blend of a fun story with a great message about the importance of friendship.

The book can be read in 3 modes: read myself, read to me, or autoplay. Another very unique feature of this e-book is the ability to personalize it. Kids can edit the illustrations (repaint background & character), the narration (record it being read by a parent or a child), and Jinx’s name (add their dog to the story). The app also includes an “extras” section featuring an introduction to Dean Koontz, a tutorial on how to use the app, a photo gallery with pictures of the real-life Trixie, and a link to an organization called Canine Companions which provides assistance dogs for children & adults with disabilities.

This app could be incorporated into a reading unit centering around friendship stories or animal stories. It could also be used as a springboard for all sorts of creative writing – write about your dog, your dog’s best friend, your best friend, etc. There are so many possibilities for using this wonderful app in a classroom. And the most obvious reason to use it …. it’s a fun, GREAT story!

Highly recommended!!