Too Far app review: not just an interactive novel

Introduction

I have been exploring the magic of interactive books lately, but find the choice in the App Store a bit small for my liking.  Most of the interactive books are designed for kids and for education purposes and there are almost no novels available for adults unless you go into iBooks, which doesn’t support interactivity. I was very surprised that The Conspiracy LLC actually has made an interactive novel for adults in the form of Rich Shapero’s classic "Too Far". In this book, he combines the art of Eugene from Bruenchenhein and the music from himself in collaboration with famous artists such as Brighteyes and PJ Harvey. Too Far is designed to be enjoyed only on iPad.

The best interactive books for iPad

Interactivity

When you start reading the novel, and it is a true novel, you will get a short introduction on how to use the app. Interactivity isn’t as blatant as you would see in children’s books in the App Store, but it certainly exists. In the top right-hand corner of the book, you will see if there are specific places on the page that can lead you to the full map, which can be activated and deactivated on your whim. This area will also depict a symbol if there is bespoke music written for a part of the book you are reading. This will add a whole layer of atmosphere to your experience, and I would strongly suggest you read this book with the sound on and with any distractions from the outside world blocked out.

The best interactive books for iPhone-2021

Artwork and Music

The artwork from visionary artist Eugene Von Bruenchenhein adds another layer of atmosphere to the app. This is truly a novel for adults, which the App Store warns you about, but the art adds a nice psychedelic feel to the story about the fantasy of two pre teenage boys. The story feels like it has been inspired by these amazing pieces of art and  the art really adds to the story. The music added to the mix completes this book and the whole experience should be enjoyed, rather than just the writing.

Best iphone and ipad apps

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Really easy to read
• Fantastic art, music, and interactivity
• The first true collaboration of arts
• Completely free

Cons

• Might be a little bit too highbrow for people

Conclusion

Too Far really blew me away by the amount of content and detail is brought into this amazing mix of writing, art, and music. Seeing that the developer gives this app away for absolutely free, there isn’t really a real reason not to download and give this interactive novel a try. I would strongly suggest you read the book using all the available senses as this will only add to the experience. The entirety of the book has been well-thought-out and will give you an experience like never before. The app is only compatible with iPad, as on a small screen this wouldn’t have the same impact.