Byline: JASON HILL

CD-ROM OF THE WEEK

The Universe According

to Virgil Reality

System: PC

Price: $59.95

Supplier: Dataflow (02) 9417 9700

Rating: 9/10

YOU have to be on your toes with kids. Their mischief is not the big worry - it's the perplexing questions.

These days you don't have to palm the question off or covertly scan a science book.

CD-ROMs such as The Universe According to Virgil Reality can provide not only satisfactory explanations, but also give kids an entertaining introduction to science and the way the world works.

Our madcap host is Dr Virgil Reality, a knowledgeable but slightly hyperactive genius. Using the talents of Charles Fleischer, best known as the voice of Roger Rabbit, Dr Reality will do anything to explain the intricacies of mysterious scientific subjects of time, space and life in general.

The doctor's laboratory is where it all happens. Kids can click on any of the gadgets for a brief description or a visual explanation of how it works and there are always several more advanced options for the more inquisitive child.

For those with Internet connections, www.kidsworld.com is another avenue adding value to the CD. It is the online home of Dr Reality and, even if you don't purchase the CD, the site is filled with activities and games of the same calibre. The CD doubles as an excellent study resource by including entries from the science and technology sections of the Columbia Encyclopedia.

Q, the doctor's brilliant assistant, is always on hand to provide additional information and explanations of topics for the older child.

SAMANTHA AMJADALI

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