Scruffy Kitty

Scruffy is not the perfect pet. This raggedy cat lives outside, chases mice and is a bit dirty—until he’s bathed and put to bed at the end. This interactive story for beginning readers is as visually captivating as the best children's picture book in print. The narrator of the story has a posh British accent (in the English version), which makes quite a contrast to this furry feline's rough-and-tumble lifestyle.

Tap Scruffy to make him move or meow as he haunts the neighborhood. Full of interactive surprises on every page, kids will be engrossed as this simple, charming story is narrated to them. There’s no option to turn off the narrator, which makes this app best for budding readers. Scruffy “pulses” when he can be tapped to move or purr, but once he’s done his thing, more touching won't make him repeat the action or sound.

Despite these minor drawbacks, Scruffy Kitty is a thoughtfully crafted story experience, with first-class writing and illustrations. This app boasts all of the simple joy of a traditional storybook, but the interactivity, a bonus sticker game and special seasonal layers for holidays put this eStorybook a step above similar apps.