Google Read Along - Reading Practice App for Young Readers

I had a chance today to explore the new Google Read Along App on my Chromebook and I think it is something that will engage young readers in reading practice at home. Right now the App only works on Android-enabled Chromebooks and Android devices, but I hope it will be available for iOS in the future.

Here are some of the features that I really liked.

• It is free with no in-app purchases or ads.
• It is available in nine languages including English, Spanish, Portuguese and Hindi
• The in-app reading buddy that listens to the reader, offers assistance when they struggle and rewards them with stars and badges as they successfully complete passages.
• Students can also tap the reading buddy to get help pronouncing a word or sentence.
• Parents can create profiles for multiple readers.
• The app can recommend difficulty levels for stories and games based on the reading performance of the student.
• It works online or offline, but you do need to be online to download new stories. 
• Google is looking for feedback, so I think the App will continue to improve.  They have even created a place for anyone to send feedback at readalong@google.com.

I've read a few reviews and this app definitely has room to grow, but at first glance it definitely looks like something worth exploring.  Happy Reading!