JK Rowling backs Sony's new Wonderbook with Book Of Spells

JK Rowling backs Sony's new Wonderbook with Book Of Spells

The Wonderbook is the latest innovation from Sony, who announced it at the world’s biggest gaming conference, E3 in Los Angeles.

Using hi-tech “augmented reality” graphics, the device works on the PlayStation 3 in tandem with its Eye camera and Move motion controller.

Users open the Wonderbook in front of the TV and watch as elements of whatever they are reading appear on screen.

The first Wonderbook title is JK Rowling’s specially written Book Of Spells â€" where players train to become wizards at Hogwarts school.

The author said: “Wonderbook Book Of Spells is the closest a muggle can come to a real spell book.”

In LA, the live demo showed the book bursting into flames on-screen. The Wonderbook has been dubbed the “Kindle for kids” and is expected in the UK in time for Christmas.

SONY PLAYSTATION ONE: Discarding the traditional games cartridge, the console, launched in 1994, popularised CDs for gaming.

NINTENDO Wii: The now-iconic white console was the first to incorporate movement control into games.

iPHONE: Apple’s smartphone allowed gamers to indulge on the move.

NINTENDO 3DS: First console to boast 3D capabilities without the need for glasses.

DUALSHOCK CONTROLLER: First vibrating controller, launched for the PS2 in 1997.

By LEE PRICE, Gaming Editor

CLEARLY aimed at kids, this is innovative and exciting.

An unusual contraption, having JK Rowling on board adds instant gravitas to the Wonderbook and will ensure a successful launch.

Long-term, it remains to be seen whether it can serve as a Kindle for kids but anything that encourages them to spend time reading should be applauded.