Lesepfadfinder

Reading Pathfinder is a reading app for children aged 7 to 10. Each story branches out: At the end of a section, the child decides how to continue – and ends up at a different ending depending on the path chosen.

WHY THIS HELPS WITH LEARNING TO READ

To make a decision, you have to understand. The decision at the end of each section is therefore a built-in comprehension test – without any quizzes.

And because each story has multiple paths, children voluntarily read it again. This repeated reading is the best-documented way to achieve fluent reading.

ONE SECTION PER PAGE

No flashing elements, no games in between. Just text, a calm image, and the decision. This isn't about saving money, but rather by design: Additional features in children's reading apps have been proven to lower reading comprehension.

READ ALOUD FOR READING ALONG

The app reads aloud on request – the text remains visible, the current sentence is displayed, and the word just spoken is highlighted. Tapping a single word is all it takes to hear it again. This turns listening into reading along. After a few paragraphs, the app politely asks if the child would like to read the next one themselves – no pressure, and the option to switch at any time.

FOR EVERY READING PACE

Two reading levels (larger font and more spacing for beginning readers, more compact for experienced readers), the Andika font, designed specifically for beginning readers, a letter spacing slider, and three color schemes (paper, sepia, night).

THE ENDING COLLECTION

Each found ending appears as a path on a small map. No points, no series, no daily goals – the reward for reading is more story, nothing else. Once found, it stays forever.

WHAT THIS APP DOESN'T DO

• No advertising
• No data collection, no analytics, no account
• No internet connection required for reading – the books are included in the app
• No notifications urging you to keep playing
• No time pressure, no daily streaks, no points
• No chat or community features
• No permissions for camera, microphone, location, contacts, or storage

Every story ending is a natural conclusion: Alongside

"Decide differently" is always the equally valid option "Done for today."

FOR PARENTS

A separate area behind an adult barrier contains all the settings, explanations, and the management of purchased books.

To access this area, users type in a number spelled out. No purchase offers appear in the children's area.

BOOKS

One complete book is included and costs nothing. Parents can purchase additional books individually – a one-time purchase, no subscription. Purchased books remain permanently available and can be restored on new devices. Only the purchase itself takes place via Google Play and requires a brief connection; reading then resumes offline.