*3.2.1 Augmented textbooks*

Nowadays, interactive books are very popular because they make reading an active process. Augmented books are a subtype of interactive books.

Augmented book is a traditional (paper) book with additional virtual content, which is accessible through appropriate hardware and software tools [13]. The augmented books enhance the traditional ones with interactive visualizations, animations, 3D models, and audio and video materials. All these multimedia components improve reading and engage readers' attention [14]. A very important feature of augmented textbooks is that they allow learners to interact with virtual content, explore and make experiments, which guarantee active learning, better and easier perception and understanding of complex and abstract concepts. They can have a positive impact on learners' achievements and attitude toward their own learning [15].

Augmented textbooks have a significant advantage over other e-textbooks. People can read them as traditional books, but at the same time, they have an access to additional interactive digital content. There is no need to buy special equipment to use them since a smartphone or tablet is required to visualize integrated digital content-devices that learners use every day.

Augmented reality gives new dimensions to traditional textbooks, which many digital learners consider being boring. The technology can turn textbooks into an interactive tool that engages learners, motivates them to read and learn, as well as entertains them. Much more learning content can be included in augmented textbooks that exceeds the requirements of the curriculum. The additional content is accessible to anyone who has the need or desire to deepen his knowledge.

**Figure 2** shows an augmented book Bugs: Interact with Augmented Reality Creepy Crawlies (by Hannah Wilson, Carlton Kids Publisher). After scanning the pages, readers can see 3D models of different species of bugs and interact with them. Magic Books, Animal Kingdom Education Book, Animals Encyclopedia, Secrets of the Ocean, iStorm: Wild Weather and Other Forces of Nature, Dinosaur 4D +, Live Solar System and many others are good examples of books and textbooks that are created with augmented reality technology. Many of them target younger learners to provoke and stimulate their desire to read. Among the augmented textbooks that are used in secondary schools, colleges and universities are the statistical software for processing experimental data, cutting tools, Ethnobotany Workbook, Imagina Books: Human Body and others.
