Review of Alphabet - Play With the ABC’s by Tivola

This title doesn't so much teach the alphabet as it allows the child to play with it. By using the mouse or the keyboard the child moves from one brilliant screen to another. He may watch rhinos cavort across rocking letter C's. Or listen as a stylized A opens her mouth to let out a chorus of acapella script A's. Tiny tinkling drops swirl about to form the letter S.

Navigation consists of three steps, but might not be easy for a small child. The form of the cursor changes depending on which screen you are on. It doesn't turn into a specific shape like most programs. Sometimes it's hard to tell where the cursor is. Move it toward the left corner to get to the menu. Move it toward the right corner to be taken to a surprise location. Hit the escape key on your keyboard to quit the program. (Instructions may vary for Windows.)

This CD-Rom is based on a picture book by Kveta Pacovska. The sound is a mixture of children's voices and an eclectic mix of acoustic world music. The graphics are bold and abstract like bits of a child's collage. No talking animals or twangy songs here. The difference between this title and most toddler/preschool programs is like the difference between an eclair and a moon pie. Alphabet by Tivola is the most innovative, creative, and unique children's software title I have evaluated. If you or your child loathe directions and love to randomly explore and experiment, this cd-rom will prove to be an extraordinary interactive experience for you.

Note: My apologies for various delays, quirks, etc in this column. Due to recent events in the United States, researching for this column has not been a top priority. I will bring you a column next week devoted to shareware.

As always thank you for reading my topic.

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