Description:
The myriad joys of journal writing are given an electronic shakeup for young users in My First Amazing Diary. This electronic diary uses pictures and sound files to ease new readers into the experience of writing--about themselves, their school experiences, their pets, or anything that comes to mind. Along the way, children can design goofy pictures of themselves, friends, and family members and personalize the diary with pictures and text that the computer can then read back to them. Designed for new readers in the 5- to 9-year-old range, My First Amazing Diary is a straightforward program. Naturally, it invites users to write whatever comes to mind in the diary pages, just as they would in a paper-and-ink version. However, the multimedia design of the program encourages more taciturn diarists, too, drawing them out with simple questions about themselves, beloved pets, and preferred foods. Rather than facing a blank page or even feeling obliged to write reams about the topics provided, children are encouraged to pick their responses from a small but humorous assortment of pictures. The computer can then read the selections back to them, improving their vocabulary and reading skills. This low-key approach, with its emphasis on creating a writer-friendly experience, accustoms users to recording information about themselves without pressuring them to take the whole process too seriously. While My First Amazing Diary offers new writers a safe and amusing place to record their first thoughts and memories, children will likely outgrow the program quickly as they become more dedicated writers. The database and activities are neither terribly extensive nor particularly varied. The small size of the diary pages, while obviously nonthreatening, will frustrate more prolific writers. The program interface is attractive but sometimes balky, and it has few customization options. After a taste of diary writing, most users will probably want to graduate--to a more advanced and flexible electronic diary, to a simple word processor, or perhaps even to an old-fashioned journal. Clearly a great introduction to the concept of journal writing, My First Amazing Diary will definitely require later follow-up. --Alyx Dellamonica
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