WO2007050639A2

WO2007050639A2 - Electronic reader for displaying and reading a story

Info

Publication number: WO2007050639A2
Application number: PCT/US2006/041533
Authority: WO
Inventors: Jon Proudfit; Nelo Lucich
Original assignee: Jakks Pacific, Inc.
Priority date: 2005-10-24
Filing date: 2006-10-24
Publication date: 2007-05-03
Also published as: WO2007050639A3

Abstract

An electronic reader for display and reading a story is described. The electronic reader comprises a reader module encased within a housing. The reader module is configured to read data contained on a story cartridge and to generate a signal to display text and a related illustration on a television screen. The text corresponds to a page of a story and includes words that are sequentially highlighted. Forward and reverse mechanisms are attached with the housing. Using the electronic reader, a user may attach a story cartridge with the electronic reader and display a page of a story onto a television with each word being sequentially highlighted. Using the forward and reverse mechanisms, the user can change the page of the story. Additionally, the story cartridge is an openable cartridge, such that when inserted into the electronic reader, the openable cartridge is opened to expose story pertinent content therein.

Description

[0001] ELECTRONIC READER FOR DISPLAYING AND READING A STORY

[0002] PRIORITY CLAIM

[0003] The present application is a non-provisional application, claiming the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/730,422, filed on October 24, 2005, entitled, "Electronic Reader for Displaying and Reading a Story," and also claiming the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/756,243 filed on January 03, 2006, entitled, "Electronic Reader and Cartridge for Displaying and Reading a Story."

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0005] (1) Field of Invention

[0006] The present invention relates to an electronic reader, and more particularly to an electronic reader with an openable cartridge for plugging into a television to display and read a story.

[0007] (2) Description of Related Art

[0008] Children's books have long been known in the art. Using technological advances, electronic children's books have been devised that read aloud the text of a story. While satiating auditory senses, typical electronic books do not visually display the text of the story.

[0009] For visual entertainment and learning, stories are often read or depicted on children's television programs. For example, the children's story is actually illustrated and animated for a viewer to watch as the story is read to the viewer. In other cases, the words of the story are also included with the animation, thereby providing an animated story for visually displaying the story and text of the story. However, due to the very nature of television broadcasting, the story provides for no interactivity or control by the view. [00010] Additionally, cartridges are often used to store data pertaining to the electronic book. For example, a cartridge can be used that stores a storyline and associated audio/visual data. Cartridges typically include a hard shell with a protruding contact that is inserted into a reader. To enhance aesthetic features of standard cartridges, they often come with printed graphics and unique shapes. However, while operable for the storage of data, cartridges do not provide multiple uses. In other words, typical cartridges do not have additional functional features that assist in displaying the contents therein.

[00011] Thus, a continuing need exists for an electronic book that both displays and reads the text of a story while providing for interactivity and control by a user, and for a cartridge that is operable for providing external visuals pertaining to the contents therein.

[00012] SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[00013] The present invention relates to an electronic reader for connecting with a television screen. The electronic reader comprises a reader module encased within a housing. The reader module is configured to read data contained on a story cartridge and to generate a signal to display text on a television screen. The text corresponds to a page of a story and includes words. The reader module is also configured to sequentially highlight a single word at a time. A forward mechanism is attached with the housing. The forward mechanism is operable to cause the reader module to generate a signal to display a next page of the story, whereby a user may attach a story cartridge with the electronic reader and use the electronic reader to display a page of a story onto a television with each word being sequentially highlighted, and where the user can use the forward mechanism to change the page of the story.

[00014] In another aspect, the housing further comprises a first part hingedly connected with a second part, such that the housing is an openable housing with an open position and a closed position. [00015] In another aspect, the reader module is further configured to generate an audio narration signal corresponding to the highlighted word in the text, such that the television displays a page of text and narrates the highlighted word.

[00016] In yet another aspect, the reader module is further configured to generate an audio narration signal that sequentially narrates all of the text on the page.

[00017] In another aspect, the present invention further comprises a story cartridge. The story cartridge includes audio and visual data corresponding to a story.

[00018] In another aspect, the audio and visual data includes visual text and corresponding audio narration and further includes an animation with sound data that corresponds to the story.

[00019] In another aspect, the present invention further comprises an overlay space for placement of an overlay. An overlay is included for placement within the overlay space. The overlay includes illustrations related to a particular storybook.

[00020] The present invention further comprises a plurality of action mechanisms attached with the housing. Each action mechanism is operable to cause the reader module to generate a signal to display an animation and sound corresponding to the story.

[00021] In another aspect, the overlay includes animation specific illustrations positioned to cover the action mechanisms, such that pushing the animation specific illustration depresses an action mechanism which causes the electronic reader to generate an animation corresponding to the specific animation.

[00022] In another aspect, a text selector mechanism is attached with the housing. The text selector mechanism is operable to cause the reader module to generate a signal to highlight a particular word of text, whereby a user may use the text selector mechanism to selectively highlight the text. Furthermore, the text selector mechanism is a scrolling wheel. A read mechanism attached with the housing to cause the reader module to generate an audio narration signal corresponding to the particular word of text that is highlighted.

[00023] In another aspect, the forward mechanism further comprises a light and is lit to indicate that a page needs to be turned.

[00024] In yet another aspect, a reverse mechanism is attached with the housing. The reverse mechanism is operable to cause the reader module to generate a signal to display a previous page of the story.

[00025] Furthermore, the story cartridge is an openable cartridge. The openable cartridge comprises a front portion with a rear portion hingedly connected with the front portion. The front portion and rear portion can separate from a closed position to an open position. Content is connected with at least one of the front portion and rear portion, such that when in a closed position, the content is enclosed between the front portion and the rear portion. The content includes information related to the story stored in the story cartridge. The story cartridge also includes a data portion having a data contact portion for electronically connecting with a data receiving device, whereby a user can insert the openable cartridge into the electronic reader and thereafter open the electronic reader to open the openable cartridge.

[00026] Additionally, the electronic reader and the openable cartridge are formed such that opening the reader opens the openable cartridge. For example, the openable cartridge include tabs and the electronic reader includes corresponding slots, such that the tabs can be slid into the corresponding slots on the electronic reader. [00027] In yet another aspect, the action mechanisms have a particular shape and the rear portion includes cut-outs that correspond to the particular shape of the action mechanisms to allow for access to the action mechanisms.

[00028] Finally, as can be appreciated by one in the art, the present invention also comprises a method for forming the electronic reader described herein. The method comprises acts of forming and connecting the respective parts of the electronic reader. For example, the method comprises acts of forming a housing; encasing a reader module within the housing; and attaching a forward mechanism with the housing.

[00029] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[00030] The objects, features and advantages-of the present invention will be apparent from the following detailed descriptions of the various aspects of the invention in conjunction with reference to the following drawings, where:

[00031] FIG. 1 is an illustration of an electronic reader according to the present invention;

[00032] FIG. 2 is an illustration of the electronic reader attached with a television;

[00033] FIG. 3 is an illustration of the electronic reader according to the present invention;

[00034] FIG. 4 is an illustration of the electronic reader with an overlay attached thereto;

[00035] FIG. 5 A is an illustration of an openable cartridge according to the present invention, depicting the openable cartridge in a closed position;

[00036] FIG. 5B is an illustration of an openable cartridge according to the present invention, depicting the openable cartridge in a closed position; [00037] FIG. 5 C is an illustration of an openable cartridge according to the present invention, depicting the openable cartridge in an open position;

[00038] FIG. 6A is an illustration of an openable cartridge being inserted into an electronic reader according to the present invention;

[00039] FIG. 6B is an illustration of an openable cartridge inserted into the electronic reader, with both the electronic reader and openable cartridge in a closed position;

[00040] FIG. 6C is an illustration of an openable cartridge inserted into the electronic reader, with both the electronic reader and openable cartridge in an open position;

[00041] FIG. 7 A is a side-view illustration of the electronic reader; and

[00042] FIG. 7B is an illustration of the electronic reader in an open position.

[00043] DETAILED DESCRIPTION [00044] The present invention relates to an electronic reader, and more particularly to an electronic reader for plugging into a television (or other display medium) to display and read a story. The present invention also relates to an openable cartridge for plugging into a television to display and read a story. The following description is presented to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention and to incorporate it in the context of particular applications. Various modifications, as well as a variety of uses in different applications will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to a wide range of embodiments. Thus, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments presented, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein. [00045] In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough understanding of the present invention. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced without necessarily being limited to these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form, rather than in detail, in order to avoid obscuring the present invention.

[00046] The reader's attention is directed to all papers and documents which are filed concurrently with this specification and which are open to public inspection with this specification, and the contents of all such papers and documents are incorporated herein by reference. All the features disclosed in this specification, (including any accompanying claims, abstract, and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

[00047] Furthermore, any element in a claim that does not explicitly state "means for" performing a specified function, or "step for" performing a specific function, is not to be interpreted as a "means" or "step" clause as specified in 35 U.S. C. Section 112, Paragraph 6. In particular, the use of "step of or "act of in the claims herein is not intended to invoke the provisions of 35 U.S. C. 112, Paragraph 6.

[00048] The following description is separated into two sections to further assist the reader in understanding the present invention. First, a description is provided of the electronic reader and its functionality. Second, a description is provided of an openable cartridge and its functionality.

[00049] ( 1 ) Description of Electronic Reader

[00050] As shown in FIG. 1, the present invention relates to an electronic reader 100 for connecting with a television screen. The electronic reader 100 is used to assist a user with learning how to read by displaying a story's text on the television screen. A narrator is used to read the text as it is displayed on the screen. While viewing the text and listening to a narrator, the user is able to associate particular words with the text, thereby assisting the user in learning to read. As can be appreciated by one skilled in the art, although described as being used with a television, the present invention can be used with any medium that is capable of displaying an image and generating a related audio signal.

[00051 ] The electronic reader 100 includes a housing 102 with a reader module 104 encased within the housing 102. The housing 102 includes a hinge 106 and is openable to simulate a book and expose mechanisms (e.g., buttons) therein.

[00052] The reader module 104 is configured to read data contained on a story cartridge and to generate a signal to display text on a television screen. The reader module 104 is also configured to generate a signal to display images and/or animations (on a television screen) that relate to the story.

[00053] The text includes words that correspond to a page of the story. A forward mechanism 108 is attached with the housing 102. The forward mechanism 108 is operable to cause the reader module 104 to generate a signal to display a next page of the story (including the text and corresponding images and/or animations).

Additionally, a reverse mechanism 110 is attached with the housing to cause the reader module 104 to generate a signal to display a previous page of the story.

[00054] The forward mechanism 108 further includes a light that is lit to indicate that a page needs to be turned. Using the forward mechanism 108, a user can change the page of the story to display the next page of text.

[00055] FIG. 2 illustrates a television 200 being attached with the electronic reader 100.

As shown, a page of text 202 and corresponding image 203 are displayed on the television 200. The text includes words that correspond to a page of a story. The reader module is further configured to sequentially highlight a single word 204 at a time. The reader module is also configured to generate an audio narration signal corresponding to the highlighted word 204 in the text, such that the television 200 displays a page of text and narrates the highlighted word 204. The reader module also generates an audio narration signal that sequentially narrates all of the text on the page. Using the electronic reader 100, a user can display a page of text while the page is read to the user by a narrator, thereby allowing the user to associate the visual text with its audible counterpart.

[00056] Referring again to FIG. 1 , the electronic reader includes a plurality of action mechanisms 112 attached with the housing 102. Each action mechanism 112 is operable to cause the reader module 104 to generate a signal to display an animation and sound corresponding to the story. As a non-limiting example, if the story is about jungle animals, pressing the action mechanism causes the television to display an animation corresponding to a jungle animal. Each action mechanism 112 causes the electronic reader 100 to display a different animation.

[00057] A text selector mechanism 114 is attached with the housing 102. The text selector mechanism 114 is operable to cause the reader module 104 to generate a signal to highlight a particular word of text. Using the text selector mechanism 114, a user may selectively highlight any given word of the displayed text. To easily select text, the text selector mechanism 114 is a scrolling wheel, thereby allowing a user to scroll the wheel to highlight different words.

[00058] As the text is highlighted, it is desirable to narrate the highlighted word. As such, a read mechanism 116 is attached with the housing 102. The read mechanism

116 is operable to cause the reader module 104 to generate an audio narration signal that corresponds to the particular word of text that is highlighted.

[00059] Additionally, once a story cartridge is attached with the electronic reader 100, a play/pause mechanism 118 is included to cause the electronic reader to play and pause its operations. [00060] As a user inserts a story cartridge, it is desirable to include an overlay that includes illustrations related to a particular storybook. To include an overlay, the electronic reader 100 includes an overlay space 120 for placement of the overlay. Furthermore, a volume controller 122 is included to control the volume of the audio narration.

[00061] FIG. 3 illustrates a top-view of the electronic reader 100. As shown, a cartridge insert 300 is included to allow a user to insert a story cartridge into the electronic reader. Additionally, an audio/video jack 302 is included to allow a user to plug the electronic reader into corresponding audio/video jacks on a television. In other words, the electronic reader 100 is configured to be connected with a television (or other display medium) through any suitable technique for connecting two electrical components, non-limiting examples of which include being wired or wirelessly connected.

[00062] In some cases, it may be desirable to display the text on the television screen while providing the audio narration on a headphone. In this aspect, a user may use the electronic reader 100 without disturbing other people present in the same room. As such, a headphone jack 304 is included to allow a user to affix a headphone with the headphone jack 304. When a headphone is inserted into the headphone jack 304, the electronic reader 100 sends the audio narration to the headphone and not the television screen.

[00063] Another unique aspect of the present invention is that the electronic reader 100 can be opened similar to a book. The electronic reader has a first part 306 that is hingedly connected 308 with a second part 310. Thus, the first part 306 can be separated from the second part 310 to simulate opening a book.

[00064] FIG. 4 illustrates the electronic reader 100 with a story cartridge 400 and overlay 402 attached. The story cartridge 400 includes audio and visual data corresponding to a story. The audio and visual data includes information pertaining to the visual text, the related images and/or animations, and corresponding audio narration. Additionally, related animations with sound data are included in the story cartridge 400.

[00065] As shown, the overlay 402 includes illustrations that correspond to a particular story. Additionally, the overlay 402 includes animation specific illustrations 404 that cover the action mechanisms, such that pushing the animation specific illustration 404 depresses an action mechanism which causes the electronic reader 100 to generate an animation corresponding to the specific animation. For example, pushing the illustration 404 with a tiger depresses an action mechanism which causes the electronic reader 100 to generate an animation corresponding to the tiger.

[00066] As can be appreciated by one skilled in the art, the overlay 402 can alternatively be cut-out to expose the action mechanisms. In this aspect, the user can depress the action mechanism directly to cause the electronic to generate the corresponding animation and sound signals.

[00067] (2) Description of the Openable Cartridge [00068] In addition to the cartridge described above (element 400 in FIG. 4), the present invention can alternatively be formed to use an openable cartridge. In this aspect, as illustrated in FIGs. 5A through 7B, the present invention includes a cartridge that is openable to provide visuals (content) pertaining to the data stored therein (which replaces the overlay described above). In this aspect, the electronic reader 100 is formed to utilize an openable cartridge 500. FIG. 5A through 5C illustrates various views of the openable cartridge 500. FIGs. 5 A and 5B illustrate the openable cartridge 500 in a closed position, while FIG. 5C illustrates the openable cartridge 500 after having been opened.

[00069] As shown in FIG. 5B, the openable cartridge 500 has a data contact portion 502 for connection with a data receiving device (such as the electronic reader). The data contact portion 502 allows for data transfer between the data portion 502 of the openable cartridge 500 and the electronic reader.

[00070] Although the openable cartridge 500 is described herein as being used with an electronic reader, one skilled in the art can appreciate that the openable cartridge

500 can be designed for use with any electronic device that utilizes a cartridge, non- limiting examples of which include the electronic reader and a video game.

[00071] As shown in FIGs. 5A through 5C, the openable cartridge 500 has a front portion 504 and a rear portion 506. When in a closed position, the front portion 504 and rear portion 506 are together. Alternatively, in an open position, the front portion 504 and rear portion 506 are separated from each other (shown in FIG. 5C). The front portion 504 is attached with the rear portion 506 through any suitable technique or device for allowing the two portions to be selectively separated and placed together. For example, the front portion 504 is hingedly attached with the rear portion 506 to allow the openable cartridge 500 to be easily opened. Finger slots 508 are also included to allow a user to easily insert and remove the cartridge 500 from the electronic reader. Additionally, the rear portion 506 includes cut-outs 510 that allow space for the action mechanisms (described in further detail below).

[00072] FIGs. 6A through 6C illustrate the openable cartridge 500 being inserted into the side of the electronic reader 100. As shown in FIG. 6A, the electronic reader 100 includes an access slot 600 to allow for insertion of the openable cartridge 500. As shown in FIG. 6B, the openable cartridge 500 is inserted within the electronic reader 100, with the electronic reader 100 being formed to accept insertion of the openable cartridge 500. When inserted, the data portion of the cartridge 500 engages with the data receiving device of the electronic reader 100, thereby allow for the transfer of data therebetween.

[00073] As shown in FIG. 6C, the electronic reader 100 is formed to be opened similar to the operations of a book. Opening the electronic reader 100 opens the openable cartridge 500 inserted therein. As can be appreciated by one skilled in the art, the electronic reader 100 and openable cartridge 500 are formed in any suitable manner such that opening the reader 100 opens the openable cartridge 500. For example, as shown in FIG. 6C, the openable cartridge 100 can include tabs 606 that slide into (engage with) corresponding slots 608 on the electronic reader 100. In this aspect, opening the electronic reader 100 will separate the front portion 504 from the rear portion 506.

[00074] In another aspect, both the electronic reader 100 and openable cartridge 500 can be formed such that the openable cartridge 500 can ONLY be opened when inserted into the electronic reader 100. For example, the openable cartridge 500 can be formed to have a locking mechanism that interacts with a corresponding release mechanism in the electronic reader 100, a non-limiting example of which includes the locking and corresponding release mechanism commonly found on VHS tapes and video cassette recorders (VCRs) respectively. As another example, the

[00075] When opened, the front portion 504 is separated from the rear portion 506 to expose content 602 therein. The content 602 can be either graphics or text corresponding to the material stored in the cartridge. Additionally, the content 602 can be printed material affixed directly to each of the front and rear portions 504 and 506. In another aspect, the content 602 can be a plurality of pages containing information that is related to the data stored in the openable cartridge 500. As a non-limiting example, the data in the openable cartridge 500 includes a children's story. As the openable cartridge 500 is opened, the now exposed content 602 includes graphics and text corresponding to the children's story. If a plurality of pages are included, each page could contain additional graphics and text related to the story.

[00076] Additionally, as described above, the electronic reader 100 includes action mechanisms 604. The openable cartridge 500 is formed such that it does not obscure or hinder access to the action mechanisms 604. For example, as described above, the rear portion 506 includes cut-outs 510 that allow space for access to the action mechanisms 604. The action mechanisms 604 interact with the reader module to cause it to generate a desired (and preprogrammed) audio and/or video signal. Using the description above, the action mechanisms 604 can operate to generate illustrate specific animations, etc.

] As shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, the electronic reader 100 is formed in a suitable manner to accept the openable cartridge. FIG. 7 A illustrates a left, side-view of the electronic reader 100 in the closed position. As shown, when closed, an access slot 600 is formed in the electronic reader to allow for insertion of the openable cartridge. FIG. 7B illustrates the electronic reader 100 without the openable cartridge inserted therein. As illustrated in FIG. 7B, after the openable cartridge is inserted into the access slot .600, the electronic reader 100 can be opened to open 700 the openable cartridge (not shown). Also illustrated is the data receiving device 702. As can be appreciated by one skilled in the art, the data receiving device 702 is formed in any suitable manner to engage with the data portion of the openable cartridge.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. An electronic reader, comprising: a housing; a reader module encased within the housing, the reader module being configured to read data contained on a story cartridge and to generate a signal to display text on a television screen, the text corresponding to a page of a story and having words, the reader module further configured to sequentially highlight a single word at a time; and a forward mechanism attached with the housing, the forward mechanism being operable to cause the reader module to generate a signal to display a next page of the story, whereby a user may attach a story cartridge with the electronic reader and use the electronic reader to display a page of a story onto a television with each word being sequentially highlighted, and where the user can use the forward mechanism to change the page of the story.

2. An electronic reader as set forth in Claim 1, wherein the housing further comprises a first part hingedly connected with a second part, such that the housing is an openable housing with an open position and a closed position.

3. An electronic reader as set forth in Claim 2, wherein the reader module is further configured to generate an audio narration signal corresponding to the highlighted word in the text, such that the television displays a page of text and generates an audio signal that corresponds to the highlighted word.

4. An electronic reader as set forth in claim 3, wherein the reader module is further configured to generate an audio narration signal that sequentially narrates all of the text on the page.

5. An electronic reader as set forth in Claim 4, further comprising a story cartridge, the story cartridge including audio and visual data corresponding to a story.

6. An electronic reader as set forth in Claim 5, wherein the audio and visual data includes visual text and corresponding audio narration and further includes an animation with sound data that corresponds to the story.

7. An electronic reader as set forth in Claim 6, further comprising a plurality of action mechanisms attached with the housing, each action mechanism being operable to cause the reader module to generate a signal to display an animation and sound corresponding to the story.

8. An electronic reader as set forth in Claim 7, wherein the action mechanisms are attached with the housing such that they are between the first part and the second part, such that when the housing is in an open position, the action mechanisms are accessible, and when the housing is in a closed position, the action mechanisms are encased within the housing.

9. An electronic reader as set forth in Claim 8, further comprising a text selector mechanism attached with the housing, the text selector mechanism being operable to cause the reader module to generate a signal to highlight a particular word of text, whereby a user may use the text selector mechanism to selectively highlight the text.

10. An electronic reader as set forth in Claim 9, wherein the text selector mechanism is a scrolling wheel.

11. An electronic reader as set forth in Claim 10, further comprising a read mechanism attached with the housing, the read mechanism being operable to cause the reader module to generate an audio narration signal corresponding to the particular word of text that is highlighted.

12. An electronic reader as set forth in Claim 11, wherein the forward mechanism further comprises a light and is lit to indicate that a page needs to be turned.

13. An electronic reader as set forth in Claim 12, further comprising a reverse mechanism attached with the housing, the reverse mechanism being operable to cause the reader module to generate a signal to display a previous page of the story.

14. An electronic reader as set forth in Claim 13, further comprising an overlay space for placement of an overlay.

15. An electronic reader as set forth in Claim 14, further comprising an overlay for placement within the overlay space, the overlay including illustrations related to a particular storybook.

16. An electronic reader as set forth in Claim 15, wherein the overlay includes animation specific illustrations positioned to cover the action mechanisms, such that pushing the animation specific illustration depresses an action mechanism which causes the electronic reader to generate an animation corresponding to the specific animation.

17. An electronic reader as set forth in Claim 13, wherein the story cartridge is an openable cartridge, the openable cartridge further comprising: a front portion; a rear portion hingedly connected with the front portion so that the front portion and rear portion can separate from a closed position to an open position; content connected with at least one of the front portion and rear portion, such that when in a closed position, the content is enclosed between the front portion and the rear portion, where the content includes information related to the story stored in the story cartridge; and a data portion, the data portion having a data contact portion for electronically connecting with a data receiving device, whereby a user can insert the openable cartridge into the electronic reader and thereafter open the electronic reader to open the openable cartridge.

18. An electronic reader as set forth in Claim 17, wherein the electronic reader and the openable cartridge are formed such that opening the reader opens the openable cartridge.

19. An electronic reader as set forth in Claim 18, wherein the openable cartridge include tabs and the electronic reader includes corresponding slots, such that the tabs can be slid into the corresponding slots on the electronic reader.

20. An electronic reader as set forth in Claim 19, wherein the action mechanisms have a particular shape and the rear portion includes cut-outs that correspond to the particular shape of the action mechanisms to allow for access to the action mechanisms.

21. An electronic reader as set forth in Claim 1, wherein the reader module is further configured to generate an audio narration signal corresponding to the highlighted word in the text, such that the television displays a page of text and generates an audio signal that corresponds to the highlighted word.

22. An electronic reader as set forth in claim 1, wherein the reader module is further configured to generate an audio narration signal that sequentially narrates all of the text on the page.

23. An electronic reader as set forth in Claim 1, further comprising a story cartridge, the story cartridge including audio and visual data corresponding to a story.

24. An electronic reader as set forth in Claim 23, wherein the audio and visual data includes visual text and corresponding audio narration and further includes an animation with sound data that corresponds to the story.

25. An electronic reader as set forth in Claim 23, further comprising a reverse mechanism attached with the housing, the reverse mechanism being operable to cause the reader module to generate a signal to display a previous page of the story.

26. An electronic reader as set forth in Claim 23, further comprising a plurality of action mechanisms attached with the housing, each action mechanism being operable to cause the reader module to generate a signal to display an animation and sound corresponding to the story.

27. An electronic reader as set forth in Claim 26, wherein the action mechanisms are attached with the housing such that they are between the first part and the second part, such that when the housing is in an open position, the action mechanisms are accessible, and when the housing is in a closed position, the action mechanisms are encased within the housing.

28. An electronic reader as set forth in Claim 1, further comprising a text selector mechanism attached with the housing, the text selector mechanism being operable to cause the reader module to generate a signal to highlight a particular word of text, whereby a user may use the text selector mechanism to selectively highlight the text.

29. An electronic reader as set forth in Claim 28, wherein the text selector mechanism is a scrolling wheel.

30. An electronic reader as set forth in Claim 28, further comprising a read mechanism attached with the housing, the read mechanism being operable to cause the reader module to generate an audio narration signal corresponding to the particular word of text that is highlighted.

31. An electronic reader as set forth in Claim 1 _s wherein the forward mechanism further comprises a light and is lit to indicate that a page needs to be turned.

32. An electronic reader as set forth in Claim 1, further comprising an overlay space for placement of an overlay.

33. An electronic reader as set forth in Claim 32, further comprising an overlay for placement within the overlay space, the overlay including illustrations related to a particular storybook.

34. An electronic reader as set forth in Claim 33, further comprising a plurality of action mechanisms attached with the housing, each action mechanism being operable to cause the reader module to generate a signal to display an animation and sound corresponding to the story, and wherein the overlay includes animation specific illustrations positioned to cover the action mechanisms, such that pushing the animation specific illustration depresses an action mechanism which causes the electronic reader to generate an animation corresponding to the specific animation.

35. An electronic reader as set forth in Claim 1-, further comprising a story cartridge, the story cartridge including audio and visual data corresponding to a story, wherein the story cartridge is an openable cartridge, the openable cartridge further comprising: a front portion; a rear portion hingedly connected with the front portion so that the front portion and rear portion can separate from a closed position to an open position; content connected with at least one of the front portion and rear portion, such that when in a closed position, the content is enclosed between the front portion and the rear portion, where the content includes information related to the story stored in the story cartridge; and a data portion, the data portion having a data contact portion for electronically connecting with a data receiving device, whereby a user can insert the openable cartridge into the electronic reader and thereafter open the electronic reader to open the openable cartridge.

36. An electronic reader as set forth in Claim 35, wherein the electronic reader and the openable cartridge are formed such that opening the reader opens the openable cartridge.

37. An electronic reader as set forth in Claim 35, wherein the openable cartridge include tabs and the electronic reader includes corresponding slots, such that the tabs can be slid into the corresponding slots on the electronic reader.

38. An electronic reader as set forth in Claim 35, further comprising a plurality of action mechanisms attached with the housing, each action mechanism being operable to cause the reader module to generate a signal to display an animation and sound corresponding to the story, and wherein the action mechanisms have a particular shape and the rear portion includes cut-outs that correspond to the particular shape of the action mechanisms to allow for access to the action mechanisms.

39. A method for forming an electronic reader, comprising acts of: forming a housing; encasing a reader module within the housing, the reader module being configured to read data contained on a story cartridge and to generate a signal to display text on a television screen, the text corresponding to a page of a story and having words, the reader module further configured to sequentially highlight a single word at a time; attaching a forward mechanism with the housing, the forward mechanism being operable to cause the reader module to generate a signal to display a next page of the story, whereby a user may attach a story cartridge with the electronic reader and use the electronic reader to display a page of a story onto a television with each word being sequentially highlighted, and where the user can use the forward mechanism to change the page of the story.

40, A method for forming an electronic reader as set forth in Claim 39, further comprising an act of configuring the reader module to generate an audio narration signal corresponding to the highlighted word in the text, such that the television displays a page of text and generates an audio signal that corresponds to the highlighted word.

41. A method for forming an electronic reader as set forth in claim 39, further comprising an act of configuring the reader module to generate an audio narration signal that sequentially narrates all of the text on the page.

42. A method for forming an electronic reader as set forth in Claim 39, further comprising an act of forming a story cartridge to include audio and visual data corresponding to a story.

43. A method for forming an electronic reader as set forth in Claim 39, further comprising an act of forming a story cartridge to include visual text and corresponding audio narration, and further include an animation with sound data that corresponds to the story.

44. A method for forming an electronic reader as set forth in Claim 39, further comprising an act of attaching a reverse mechanism with the housing, the reverse mechanism being operable to cause the reader module to generate a signal to display a previous page of the story.

45. A method for forming an electronic reader as set forth in Claim 39, further comprising an act of attaching an action mechanism with the housing, the action mechanism being operable to cause the reader module to generate a signal to display an animation and sound corresponding to the story.

46. A method for forming an electronic reader as set forth in Claim 45, wherein the action mechanism is attached with the housing such that it is between the first part and the second part, such that when the housing is in an open position, the action mechanism is accessible, and when the housing is in a closed position, the action mechanism is encased within the housing.

47. A method for forming an electronic reader as set forth in Claim 39, further comprising an act of attaching a text selector mechanism with the housing, the text selector mechanism being operable to cause the reader module to generate a signal to highlight a particular word of text, whereby a user may use the text selector mechanism to selectively highlight the text.

48. A method for forming an electronic reader as set forth in Claim 47, wherein in the act of attaching a text selector mechanism, the text selector mechanism is a scrolling wheel.

49. A method for forming an electronic reader as set forth in Claim 39, further comprising an act of attaching a read mechanism with the housing, the read mechanism being operable to cause the reader module to generate an audio narration signal corresponding to a particular word of text that is highlighted.

50. A method for forming an electronic reader as set forth in Claim 39, further comprising an act of forming the forward mechanism to include a light that is lit to indicate that a page needs to be turned.

51. A method for forming an electronic reader as set forth in Claim 39, further comprising an act of forming the housing to include an overlay space for placement of an overlay.

52. A method for forming an electronic reader as set forth in Claim 51, further comprising an act of forming an overlay for placement within the overlay space, the overlay including illustrations related to a particular storybook.

53. A method for forming an electronic reader as set forth in Claim 51, further comprising an act of attaching a plurality of action mechanisms with the housing, each action mechanism being operable to cause the reader module to generate a signal to display an animation and sound corresponding to the story, and wherein the overlay includes animation specific illustrations positioned to cover the action mechanisms, such that pushing the animation specific illustration depresses an action mechanism which causes the electronic reader to generate an animation corresponding to the specific animation.

54. A method for forming an electronic reader as set forth in Claim 39, further comprising an act of forming a story cartridge to include audio and visual data corresponding to a story, wherein the story cartridge is an openable cartridge, the openable cartridge being further formed to comprise: a front portion; a rear portion hingedly connected with the front portion so that the front portion and rear portion can separate from a closed position to an open position; content connected with at least one of the front portion and rear portion, such that when in a closed position, the content is enclosed between the front portion and the rear portion, where the content includes information related to the story stored in the story cartridge; and a data portion, the data portion having a data contact portion for electronically connecting with a data receiving device, whereby a user can insert the openable cartridge into the electronic reader and thereafter open the electronic reader to open the openable cartridge.

55. A method for forming an electronic reader as set forth in Claim 54, further comprising an act of forming the electronic reader and the openable cartridge such that opening the reader opens the openable cartridge.

56. A method for forming an electronic reader as set forth in Claim 54, further comprising an act of forming the electronic reader and openable cartridge such that the openable cartridge include tabs and the electronic reader includes corresponding slots, such that the tabs can be slid into the corresponding slots on the electronic reader.

57. A method for forming an electronic reader as set forth in Claim 54, further comprising an act of attaching a plurality of action mechanisms with the housing, each action mechanism being operable to cause the reader module to generate a signal to display an animation and sound corresponding to the story, and wherein the action mechanisms have a particular shape and the rear portion includes cut-outs that correspond to the particular shape of the action mechanisms to allow for access to the action mechanisms.