This would certainly work okay with one child sitting at a computer. But,a lot of children do not have computers at home, so they are limited to only viewing it in the classroom setting.
When teachers do reading they usually divide the students into groups. Each child, and the teacher, has a copy of the book. This would be difficult to do on a computer.
In addition, personalized books may be presented as gifts, put in the classroom library, etc.
Other things to consider as well, screens have glare, a lot of school computers cannot be easily positioned for individual eye sight. Most importantly, in my mind though, is the portability, hands on feature, and easy access.
I agree that physical books for fluent readers are becoming passe. For struggling readers, however, you need a "knowing other" sitting right beside you. The tutor can do all the modeling: 1 to 1 matching, moving left to right across page, return sweep, framing out word chunks, etc.
Thank you so much for the feedback. The levels correspond with what teachers basically refer to as "guided reading". A beginning reader would start on a level A and then just move up through the levels at their own pace.
Their are many older students (grades 2-4) which some of the books are geared for such as "Hot Car". The site is for children just beginning to read (your son may be too advanced), English language learners, and struggling older students.
I would love to know what subjects appeal to your 5 year old son! I'm always looking for new ideas.
When teachers do reading they usually divide the students into groups. Each child, and the teacher, has a copy of the book. This would be difficult to do on a computer.
In addition, personalized books may be presented as gifts, put in the classroom library, etc.
Other things to consider as well, screens have glare, a lot of school computers cannot be easily positioned for individual eye sight. Most importantly, in my mind though, is the portability, hands on feature, and easy access.
I hope this helps answer your question.