Reader Rabbit's Interactive Reading Journey is a 1994 video game released on the Windows and Macintosh systems. It is the sixth game in the Reader Rabbit franchise. Designed for ages 4 till 7, the game introduces the new main characters Mat the Mouse and Sam the Lion who accompany Reader. It was then re-released in 1997 under the title "Reader Rabbit's Interactive Reading Journey For Grades K-1", followed by another released in 1998 titled "Reader Rabbit's Reading Ages 4–6" and a personalized version in 1999.
The game teaches users how to read effectively. Forty storybooks can be read aloud or narrated to the user. Over 100 reading exercises include phonics, word-recognition, spelling skills and building vocabulary. The activities incorporate repetition of words, followed by a gradual increase of word variety. The game challenges users to keep learning independently and helps them to become interested in reading.[1] It also allows older users to build up on their previous skills. Overall, "Reading Journey" allows learners to set their reading progress at their own page.[2] The game came packaged with printed versions of 40 stories included in the game, which aid in reading along at the computer or independent reading away from the computer.[3]
| Publication | Score |
|---|---|
| CD-ROM Today | |
| PC Magazine | |
| MacUser |
| Publication | Award |
|---|---|
| Home PC | Award of Excellence[6] |
| Parenting | Software Magic Award[6] |
| Parent Council | Seal for Outstanding Product[6] |
| Technology & Learning | Award of Excellence for the School Category[6] |
| Parents' Choice | Foundation Approval[6] |
| Mac Home | Reader's Choice Award[6] |
| CD-ROM Today | Best Children's Program-Reading Award[6] |
| Home Computing & Entertainment | Best Educational Program Award[6] |
CD-ROM Today rated the game 5 stars, meriting its simple interface and artistic design.
PC Magazine wrote that the game facilitates learning in a non-threatening and effective way.[4] Creating Ever-cool noted that as the difficulty increases with each book, readers feel a "thrill of accomplishment" upon progressing.[7] Working Mother praised the title's "creative approach".[8] The Washington Post praised the animation as "crisp and humorous".[9] The Parents Magazine declared that the game was the most comprehensive reading skill software of that time.[10]
In June 1997, Interactive Reading Journey Learning and Interactive Reading Journey 2 were the 5th and 6th best selling reading titles.[11]
{{cite magazine}}: Cite magazine requires |magazine= (help){{cite magazine}}: Cite magazine requires |magazine= (help){{cite magazine}}: Cite magazine requires |magazine= (help)Bar none, this is the most comprehensive reading skill software program you can find