Any parent of pre-school or grade school aged kids should have a copy of Buckleitner on Tablets, an excellent introduction to this burgeoning new area of technology. Buckleitner, the founder of Childrens' Technology Review, one of the best independent sources of information of its kind, gives lots of practical information, plus the pedagogical underpinnings to using software with children. Unsurprisingly, from the man who has reviewed nearly every piece of children's software since the industry began, the selections of what software to bring home is superior, as are his reasons in support. There are plenty of examples of current apps that are among today's best, organized by age or subject matter. One problem I had with the book is that it doesn't clearly delineate between advice given for different kinds of tablets. Both Android and iPads are covered and it would have been better had the book made it more clear, perhaps through icon or typography when a tidbit was meant for one, the other or both systems. Before jumping into software recommendations, the author devotes some time to educational theory. The academic, jargon-laden section seems out-of-place. Another issue, acknowledged by Buckleitner, is that new versions and new apps are constantly coming to market. So this book is great for "right now" as you consider what to install, but might go quickly out of date. The solution is simple: Buy this must-have guide and then subscribe to Buckleitner's website to get some of the very best reviews available in the field.
