Magic Tale

With the rise of generative AI, we saw an opportunity to take on one of society’s most important challenges—declining literacy rates. At the same time, we wanted to explore how emerging technologies could be used not just for novelty, but for real human impact.

expertise:

Branding,Marketing,Products,AI Solutions

deliverables:

AI product design,AI development,Video & motion design,AI interaction design,Conversation design

Building an AI platform to boost literacy

The key insight

Children learn best when they care about what they’re learning. The deeper their sense of agency and belonging, the stronger their motivation to learn to read—and to think creatively along the way.

The bold strategy

We designed an AI-powered interactive storytelling platform that not only meets kids at their reading level—but, more importantly, creates a personal and emotional connection to stories that inspire them to want to read.

A child smiling in bed while someone holds a tablet showing the Magic Tale story-creation screen.

A teddy bear and a child lying in bed with a glowing Magic Tale character floating above a tablet.

Stories that reflect your world

We discovered that the stories kids connect with most are the ones that mirror their own desires and challenges. But that connection has to feel natural, not direct. So instead of asking kids about themselves, Magic Tale asks about their hero—what they’re hoping for, what’s holding them back, and who’s by their side. The AI uses those inputs to craft adventures that feel alive and personal—stories that gently reflect the child’s inner world without ever breaking the magic.

Three MagicTale story-creation screens on a phone, showing questions about naming characters and choosing what they will be and do.

The power of authorship

We wanted kids to truly co-create the story—to explore different paths toward their dreams and face their fears through play. But we also knew that most young readers don’t yet have the tools to write on their own. To bridge that gap, we designed prompts that guide them through small, meaningful choices: they can pick from playful options to move the story forward or invent their own. The AI adapts to each turn, giving them the thrill of authorship without the pressure of starting from scratch.

Multiple MagicTale story-creation screens showing prompts and answer choices for characters, challenges, story types, and next steps.

Friends—and humor

Every hero needs a companion. In Magic Tale, that friend is part comic relief, part catalyst—well-meaning, clumsy, and endlessly supportive. Their missteps add levity and warmth, balancing challenge with laughter. Through humor and friendship, kids learn empathy, resilience, and the joy of finding creative solutions together.

Leading through reflection

Each story ends with a gentle reflection on what the hero learned along the way. It’s not about moral lessons—it’s about recognition. Kids see their own dreams and struggles echoed through their characters, and in doing so, learn how to confront challenges in their own lives. They’re not just learning to read—they’re learning how stories can help them grow.

A child in bed using a tablet that displays the Magic Tale story-creation screen.

A child wearing a shimmering cape standing in a softly lit room.

Takeaways for your next project

Design for participation

Guided decisions give users a sense of authorship and agency. When users help shape things, engagement deepens naturally.

Merge emotion and innovation

Emerging technologies are most powerful when they serve a human goal—like sparking wonder or deepening connection.

Technology should deepen humanity

AI is most powerful when it amplifies empathy, creativity, and self-discovery. Use it to make complex skills—like reading—feel personal, joyful, and attainable.