These nonfiction apps introduce new information, reinforce familiar concepts with a fresh approach, and strengthen developing skills to encourage engaged learning throughout summer — and all year long.

In Professor Astro Cat's Solar System (based on the 2013 nonfiction book Professor Astro Cat's Frontiers of Space), cat cosmonaut Professor Astro Cat takes you on a guided tour of our solar system with plenty of humor and a retro, space-race vibe. Tap each planet, moon, or space vehicle for facts about it and a cutaway view. Tap icons at the bottom of the screen to access a size comparison of the planets and an animated orbit diagram. Earn pieces to build your own rocket by completing true-or-false quizzes. Upbeat music and sound effects add to the app's friendly feel. (Minilab Ltd., 7–10 years)

Return to terra firma with The Earth. As the app opens, the blue planet rotates against a field of stars. Slide a timeline to move through four geological eras and see how each shaped Earth. Once you reach our current era, interact with landmasses in two very different climates — by causing rain to fall, volcanoes to erupt, rivers to meander, and tectonic plates to shift — and explore how these geologic features are created and eroded. Optional labels clarify the cut-paper-style illustrations, cross-section diagrams, and animations. Paired with the downloadable handbook, this is an engaging and attractive introduction to earth science. (Tinybop, 9–12 years)

Work your way up the Center for Disease Control's ranks from trainee to master "disease detective" by uncovering the causes of disease outbreaks in Solve the Outbreak. Every chapter presents background on a fictionalized outbreak of a real disease and five clues, each followed by a multiple choice question to narrow down the outbreak's source. The clues are supplemented with patient profiles, infection data, disease characteristics, maps and stock photos, and clear definitions of unfamiliar terminology. The information is solid, the mysteries are satisfying, and the format promotes both critical thinking and understanding of the scientific method. (CDC, 9–12 years)

Brainbean provides eight brain-stimulating games. Read a brief description and watch a demonstration of each sixty-second challenge by tapping its information icon, then select one from the menu — or, if you're feeling daring, tap "Surprise Me!" — to begin. From "Letter List" (in which you list words beginning with the same letter) to "Lost Connections" (reconnect jumbled wires to complete a circuit) to "Incomplete Drawing" (expand upon a few randomized lines to create your own masterpiece), the app provides practice in a wide range of verbal, visual, and creative thinking skills. An addictive way to exercise mental muscles. (Tanner Christensen, 10–13 years)

From the July 2016 issue of Notes from the Horn Book.

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