Tumblebooks Launches Children's Electronic Book Format

Posted on November 10, 2000

TumbleBooks Inc, a division of children's books publisher Tumbleweed Press Ltd, has announced the launch of a new children's electronic book format. TumbleBooks integrate traditional print reading with animation, music, narration and computer interactivity. TumbleBooks are viewed on-line and off-line in a free downloadable application called TumbleReader.

"Children today are growing up with computers and handheld devices and they aren't going to be satisfied with the static electronic books currently on the market. They expect sound, animation and surprises," says Ron Zevy, founder and president of Tumbleweed Press. "The TumbleReader will revolutionize the way children learn to read by combining the best of print reading with the exceptional visual and interactive possibilities of electronic media."

The TumbleReader application is the electronic and visual delivery mechanism for TumbleBook titles. The TumbleReader is launched from a desktop icon and serves as a child's personal off-line library and reading portal. TumbleBooks can be delivered and experienced through a variety of devices and media: computers, handheld devices, television and the Internet.

There are presently ten TumbleBooks showcased and available for free downloading at Tumblebooks.com -- four of which are pre-loaded on the TumbleReader -- with an additional 50 under development. TumbleBooks are created from existing children's books and then converted to the TumbleBook format. In addition, new content is being created specifically for the TumbleReader.

TumbleBooks will be available for sale at a variety of online book, ebook and other ecommerce sites. Revenue is also derived from content syndication, licensing, sponsorships and custom publishing. Founded in 1996, Tumbleweed Press is a privately-held company based in Toronto. A children's book publisher, Tumbleweed Press specializes in cause-related content, and has developed more than 25 books. TumbleBooks is the electronic book division of Tumbleweed Press.