Patent Document

[0001]     This application claims priority under 35 USC §119 to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 60/600,410, filed Aug. 10, 2004. This application is expressly incorporated by reference herein, in its entirety. 
     
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD  
       [0002]     The present invention is directed generally to published and electronic materials intended to guide an individual or individuals through a particular event or location.  
       BACKGROUND  
       [0003]     People meet and interact in a wide variety of situations and circumstances. In some situations, such as exploring a previously un-visited location, a person may not be sure of what to do, or where to go. Sometimes, participating in an event in which the person has no previous experience may be unsettling to the person involved. In some cases, a person may be nervous or unsure of what to do or where to go when meeting someone new, as may occur, for example, on a first date.  
         [0004]     A need exists, therefore, for a way to facilitate exploring a new location. A need remains as well for a way to facilitate experiencing a new event, as well as meeting new people.  
       SUMMARY  
       [0005]     The present invention pertains to a way of facilitating exploring a new location, experiencing a new event, meeting new people, and a myriad of other circumstances in which people meet and interact.  
         [0006]     Accordingly, an example embodiment of the present invention is found in an activity book that includes one or more pages that direct a user through one or more predetermined activities, as well as one or more accompaniments that are related to, or will enhance, the one or more predetermined activities. The activity book may be designed for use at a particular location, or with one or more particular destinations. The activity book may be designed for use at a particular event.  
         [0007]     The one or more accompaniments may be secured relative to the one or more pages. In some instances, the one or more accompaniments may be disposed within an enclosure that is secured relative to the one or more pages. The enclosure may be an envelope that is held in a closed position by a sticker or a drop or piece of wax. The enclosure may be an envelope that is held in a closed position by a ribbon or by a string.  
         [0008]     In some instances, the one or more accompaniments may include items intended to enhance the one or more predetermined activities. If, for example, one of the predetermined activities requires an entrance fee, one of the one or more accompaniments may include a ticket or coupon that satisfies the entrance fee. The one or more accompaniments may have entertainment value, and may, for example, include a poem, a song, or a game. In some instances, the one or more accompaniments may include a device that is configured to, when activated, either play a prerecorded message or else to record a message from the user. The one or more accompaniments may have whimsical value, such as pennies to throw into a wishing well.  
         [0009]     In some instances, the one or more predetermined activities may be designed or configured to facilitate a date between two people who are reading the activity book. In some cases, the one or more predetermined activities are designed or configured to facilitate achieving a goal, such as a personal goal or a corporate goal. The one or more predetermined activities may be designed or configured to help someone celebrate an event, such as a holiday or a sponsored event.  
         [0010]     In some instances, the activity book may take the form of an electronic device suth as a personal digital assistant (PDA), and thus the one or more pages may include electronic pages. In such cases, the one or more accompaniments may include E-tickets.  
         [0011]     In some instances, the one or more predetermined activities are designed to increase a user&#39;s knowledge of a particular location, or of a particular event. In some cases, the one or more predetermined activities are designed to increase a user&#39;s knowledge of one or more particular destinations.  
         [0012]     Another illustrative embodiment of the present invention may be found in a series of activity books that includes at least a first activity book, and a second activity book that is intended for use subsequent to use of the first activity book. The first activity book includes one or more pages directing a user through one or more predetermined activities, and in some cases, includes one or more accompaniments that are related to the one or more predetermined activities. The second activity book also includes one or more pages directing a user through one or more predetermined activities, and in some cases, may include one or more accompaniments that are related to the one or more predetermined activities.  
         [0013]     Another illustrative embodiment of the present invention may be found in a fun book that includes a first page bearing instructions to engage in a first activity and a second page bearing instructions to engage in a subsequent second activity. One or more items intended to facilitate the first activity may be secured relative to the first page and one or more items intended to facilitate the second activity may be secured relative to the second page.  
         [0014]     Another illustrative embodiment of the present invention may be found in an exploration book that is designed to facilitate exploration of a predetermined location. The exploration book may include a first page bearing instructions to engage in a first activity at a first locale within the predetermined location and a second page bearing instructions to engage in a second activity at a second locale within the predetermined location. One or more items intended to facilitate the first activity may be secured relative to the first page and one or more items intended to facilitate the second activity may be secured relative to the second page.  
         [0015]     Another illustrative embodiment of the present invention may be found in an event book that includes a first page bearing instructions to engage in a first activity at the event and a second page bearing instructions to engage in a subsequent second activity at the event. One or more items intended to facilitate the first activity may be secured relative to the first page and one or more items intended to facilitate the second activity may be secured relative to the second page, if desired.  
         [0016]     Another illustrative embodiment of the present invention may be found in a date book that is designed for use by two individuals. The date book may include a first page bearing instructions to engage in a first activity and a second page bearing instructions to engage in a subsequent activity. One or more items intended to facilitate the first activity may be secured relative to the first page and one or more items intended to facilitate the subsequent activity may be secured relative to the second page.  
         [0017]     Another illustrative embodiment of the present invention may be found in an apparatus that includes a stick and a book secured relative to the stick. The stick may extend outwardly from the book such that the stick forms a handle for the book. In some instances, the book is an activity book that includes two or more pages, wherein at least selected pages lead a user through one or more activities at a particular location.  
         [0018]     The above summary of the present invention is not intended to describe each disclosed embodiment or every implementation of the present invention. The Figures, Detailed Description and Examples which follow more particularly exemplify these embodiments. 
     
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES  
       [0019]     The invention may be more completely understood in consideration of the following detailed description of various embodiments of the invention in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which:  
         [0020]      FIG. 1  is a perspective view of an activity book in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;  
         [0021]      FIG. 2  is a view of an interior of the activity book of  FIG. 1 , showing two opposing pages;  
         [0022]      FIG. 3  is a view of a page of an activity book in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;  
         [0023]      FIG. 4  is a view of the activity book page of  FIG. 3 ;  
         [0024]      FIG. 5  is a view of a page of an activity book in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;  
         [0025]      FIG. 6  is a view of a page of an activity book in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;  
         [0026]      FIG. 7  is a view of a page of an activity book in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;  
         [0027]      FIG. 8  is a view of a page of an activity book in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;  
         [0028]      FIG. 9  is a view of a page of an activity book in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;  
         [0029]      FIG. 10  is a view of a series of activity books in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;  
         [0030]      FIG. 11  is a perspective view of an activity book in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;  
         [0031]      FIG. 12  is a view of a page of an activity book in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;  
         [0032]      FIGS. 13-34  illustrate an example activity book in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and  
         [0033]      FIGS. 35-48  illustrate an example activity book in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.  
         [0034]     While the invention is amenable to various modifications and alternative forms, specifics thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the intention is not to limit the invention to the particular embodiments described. On the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the invention. 
     
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION  
       [0035]     The following description should be read with reference to the drawings, in which like elements in different drawings are numbered in like fashion. The drawings, which are not necessarily to scale, depict selected embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Although examples of construction, dimensions, and materials are illustrated for the various elements, those skilled in the art will recognize that many of the examples provided have suitable alternatives that may be utilized.  
         [0036]      FIG. 1  is a perspective view of an activity book  10 . As illustrated, activity book  10  includes a front cover  12  and a spiral binding  14 . Activity book  10  may encompass several sheets of paper placed within clear plastic sheet protectors, for example. Activity book  10  may encompass several sheets of paper that are simply stapled or clipped together, or perhaps adhesively secured together. In other instances, it is contemplated that activity book  10  may include other binding forms, as are known in the art.  
         [0037]     Front cover  12  may be formed of any suitable material, such as paper, tag board, cardboard, plastic sheets and the like. Activity book  10  may include one or more pages (not illustrated in this view), which similarly are formed of paper, tag board, cardboard, plastic sheets and the like. The content of such pages will be discussed in greater detail hereinafter.  
         [0038]     Activity book  10  may include a title  16 , which may be used to designate a purpose for activity book  10 . Examples of possible titles for activity book  10  include “Date Book”, in which case activity book  10  would be directed to leading two people through a date. Another suitable title  16  would be “Challenge Book”, which may identify a book directed to helping a group of people achieve a common goal. For example, title  16  may be “Eye-Spy Book”, indicating that activity book  10  is directed to challenging one or more users to find hidden answers to riddles or sayings. Title  16  may read “Vision Book”, indicating that activity book  10  is directed to building unity or establishing common vision within a corporate structure. An “Outing Book”, or “Visitor Book”, may indicate that activity book  10  is directed to guiding visitors through one or more locations or events in an unfamiliar city, for example. One of skill in the art will recognize that a myriad of possibilities are encompassed and contemplated by the present invention.  
         [0039]     In some instances, activity book  10  may be tailored or themed to a particular holiday, a particular season, a particular event, a particular place, or the like. Examples of suitable holidays to which activity book  10  may be directed include, but are not limited to, New Year&#39;s Day, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Chinese New Year, Lincoln&#39;s Birthday, Presidents&#39;Day, Valentine&#39;s Day, Washington&#39;s Birthday, Flag Day, St. Patrick&#39;s Day, Palm Sunday, Passover, Good Friday, Easter, Labor Day, Mother&#39;s Day, Memorial Day, Father&#39;s Day, Canada Day, Independence Day, Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kipper, Columbus Day, Thanksgiving, National Boss day, United Nations Day, Halloween, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, Boxing Day, and Kwanzaa.  
         [0040]     In some instances, activity book  10  (and hence title  16 ) may be directed to a particular event that is not related to a holiday. Examples include, but are not limited to, corporate entertainment, corporate milestones, family reunions, marketing programs or product introductions, events at churches and other religious organizations, events at schools such as universities, colleges, high schools, trade schools, grade schools and the like, anniversaries, birthdays for children, teenagers, young adults, working adults, retirees and/or the elderly.  
         [0041]     In some cases, activity book  10  (and hence title  16 ) may be directed towards use at a particular location. Examples include, but are not limited to, cities and other metropolitan areas such as New York, Chicago, Miami, Minneapolis or Las Vegas, theme parks such as one of the Six Flags™ Theme Parks, Disney World, Disney Land or Camp Snoopy, destination shopping locations such as the Mall of America, and the like.  
         [0042]      FIG. 2  illustrates an interior of activity book  10 . In this Figure, activity book  10  can be seen to include a first page  18  and a second page  20 . In this, the designations of first and second are arbitrary, and do not necessarily denote succession. Moreover, it should be noted that first page  18  may represent a back surface of cover  12  ( FIG. 1 ), or may represent a page that is several or even many pages removed from cover  12 . Second page  20 , as referenced herein, merely refers to a page following first page  18 . While not illustrated as such, it is contemplated that there may be intervening pages between first page  18  and second page  20 .  
         [0043]     First page  18  includes an Activity  22  and an Accompaniment  24 . Similarly, second page  20  includes an Activity  26  and an Accompaniment  28 . Accompaniment  24  may be an item or items that facilitate Activity  22  while Accompaniment  28  may be an item or items that facilitate Activity  26 . It will be appreciated that Activity  22  and Activity  26  may describe or suggest activities that are appropriate with respect to the function of activity book  10 , as suggested by Title  16  ( FIG. 1 ).  
         [0044]     Activity  22  and Activity  26  may represent text describing an activity, location, event or the like. In some instances, Activity  22  and Activity  26  may include photos, directions, maps and the like. In some instances, one of first page  18  and second page  20  may lack either Accompaniment  24  or Accompaniment  28 .  
         [0045]     In some instances, Accompaniment  24  and/or Accompaniment  28  may include hidden surprises such as, for example, tickets or coupons, redeemable cards, money, poems, verses, songs, coins, games, fill-in-the-blank notes, funny sayings and/or other fun activities. For example, pre-defined amounts assigned to a coupon or card may provide the user with the ability to embellish the experience of an activity book. Movie tickets, zoo tickets, or any other suitable tickets may also embellish the experience of an activity book. Also, the perceived value of the activity book may be increased with pages that include discounted products or services. For example, discount cards or coupons may be provided for certain stores and/or for certain products in a shopping mall like the Mall of America™ or at a particular event such as a State Fair. In some cases, this may provide a platform for a store and/or manufacturer to introduce a new product or service to the user. Also, and in some cases, a coupon may be embedded for a next purchase discount, which may encourage further purchases and possibly increased profits.  
         [0046]     In some instances, first page  18  and second page  20  may include text, images and/or the like. Images may be used to, for example, depict a theme and/or guide the user through the various activities. In some cases, images are selected and/or created to spike interest and grab the attention of the user. These images may be custom designed or stock purchased. Preferably, a variety of images are used. For example, photographs may be used to communicate emotion. It is contemplated that either stock or personal photographs may be used, as desired.  
         [0047]     Graphical art may likewise be used. Graphical art may help create interesting text formats and animated imagery. Graphical art may also help emphasize a theme or concept, and/or increase the depth of interest in the activity book. Computer software may be used for original designs or stock graphics may be imported, as desired. Cartoons may also be used. Cartoons may be used to create humor, emit values and/or help tell a story or make a point, as desired. Color may be used to trigger emotions.  
         [0048]     Returning to  FIG. 2 , if Title  16  ( FIG. 1 ) is, for example, “Date Book”, then Activity  22  and/or Activity  26  may be designed to promote opportunities for the two people reading Activity Book  10  to communicate with each other through sharing memories, dreams and/or opinions. Perhaps Activity  22  suggests, for example, that the two people talk about their favorite pet, while Activity  26  prompts the two people to discuss some other facet of their previous life experiences. In such an example, Accompaniment  24  may include pictures of several different pets, or perhaps a map directing the individuals to the local Humane Society. Accompaniment  28  may include a list of conversation starters.  
         [0049]     In another example, if Title  16  is “Challenge book”, activity book  10  may be provided to help guide a group of people in achieving a common goal. For instance, a “Challenge book” may be designed for teams of people to compete with each other for a prize or to achieve another pre-determined goal. In one example, “Challenge Books” may be provided to teams of teenagers at a church camp. Each book may have a different objective, and teamwork may be required to complete the objective. For example, team work may be needed to solve a puzzle or identify a moral hidden in the activities, and the first team to complete the objective may win.  
         [0050]     An example may be: HONESTY, THE BEST POLICY. Activity  22  (first page  18 ) of such an illustrative “Challenge Book” may include instructions or clues on the four words that make up the moral, while Accompaniment  24  may be a paper upon which the moral may be written as the individuals figure out what it is. On second page  20 , Activity  26  may provide the team with an activity that supports the moral while Accompaniment  28  is absent.  
         [0051]     Pages three and four (not shown) may include, respectively, a short skit to be performed that highlights the moral and/or inaccurate quotes to be unscrambled. In this example, each page may take the team in the direction of solving the riddle or unveiling the hidden moral.  
         [0052]     In another example, Title  16  may read “Eye-Spy Book”, indicating that activity book  10  may be designed to challenge one or more users to ‘find’ hidden answers to riddles or sayings. The goal in one illustrative Eye-Spy Book may be to find the word or letter that is hidden in each page. Activity  22  (first page  18 ) may, for example, include a maze or the like that require 3-D glasses to ‘read’ the mystery to solve, while Accompaniment  24  provides the 3-D glasses.  
         [0053]     The maze may, for example, outline the ‘game or clues’ that will be given in each of the following pages, including, for example, second page  20 . The reader&#39;s objective may be to, for example, discover ‘Who Done It’. In one example, the ‘Mystery of the Fly Fisherman’ may be used.  
         [0054]     In another example, activity book  10  may be intended as a guide to help entertain out-of-town corporate visitors. Assume, for example, that a group of sales people are coming to town for a corporate sales meeting. A copy of activity book  10  may be provided in each person&#39;s hotel room, including perhaps a welcome card from the Vice President of Sales as well as a short letter of appreciation.  
         [0055]     On first page  18  (which as discussed need not actually be the first page of activity book  10 ), Activity  22  may include a suggestion for a wonderful dinner at a local restaurant, while Accompaniment  24  may include, for example, a map to the restaurant in question, or perhaps a coupon good for a free or reduced-cost meal at the restaurant. On second page  20 , Activity  26  may include a riddle to be read at dinner while Accompaniment  28  provides an answer to the riddle.  
         [0056]     Other pages of activity book  10  (not illustrated here) may include a page that provides historical facts about the city, little known tidbits of information about famous people from the area, etc. Another page may be dedicated to a new product being introduced at the sales meeting. In some cases, activity book  10  may be a unique way to spark conversation, have a good time and learn a little more about the cultural, historical area where the meeting is being held, and/or information about the company and/or new products being offered, as desired.  
         [0057]     In another example, activity book  10  may be intended to help or lead out-of-town visitors around a particular town, leading people through a series of one or more particular destinations. An “Outing Book” may resemble a scavenger hunt, and may have pages directing the reader through a sequence of activities—like going to a local festival, park, restaurant, theatres, museums and/or other such places or activities. In some cases, pre-paid advertisements by business owners may enable the reader to receive gifts at restaurants, theatres, museums.  
         [0058]     In such an example, Activity  22  (first page  18 ) may include a suggestion to attend a particular theatre event, while Accompaniment  24  provides directions to the theatre, discount admission to the theatre, or the like. Activity  26  (second page  20 ) may then include a suggestion for an after-theatre dinner, or after-theatre cocktail while Accompaniment  28  includes a map to the after-theatre location.  
         [0059]     In some instances, it is contemplated that activity book  10  may be tailored to the cruise ship industry. For example, many cruise ships have numerous activities planned for the enjoyment of their guests. An “Outing Book” may be provided that directs the reader through a sequence of activities—like going to the swimming pool, a putt-putt golf course, a show, dinner at a particular restaurant, the casino and finally to a particular bar/disco for a night cap.  
         [0060]     In another example, a “Welcome Outing Book” may be provided to the guests upon arrival to the ship. The “Welcome Outing Book” may, for example, help familiarize the reader with the ship by guiding the reader through various parts of the ship, possibly providing interesting information about the operation, activities, and/or history of the ship. Muster stations as well as other safety information may also be provided. In some cases, the “Outing Book” may resemble a scavenger hunt to help add fun to the exploration of the ship. Upon completion of the scavenger hunt, the reader may qualify for a drawing to win a prize, for example.  
         [0061]     In some cases, a “Visiting Book” may be provided to guests for a particular port of call. For example, a “Visiting Book” may include an introduction to the entertainment and/or sightseeing offerings of the port of call. The Visiting Book may also provide historical facts about the port of call, little known tidbits of information about famous people from the area, maps, etc. The Visiting Book may also provide suggested local restaurants, beaches, car rental companies, excursion companies and locations, etc. In some cases, the “Visiting Book” may outline one or more suggested day trips, which may include a sequence of activities that are designed to allow the reader to get the most out of the often relatively short visit to the port of call. In some cases, the “Visiting Book” may resemble a scavenger hunt, which may help add fun to the exploration of the port-of-call.  
         [0062]     Upon completion of the scavenger hunt, the reader may qualify for a drawing to win a prize, for example. The “Outing Books” and/or “Visiting Books” may include coupons, tickets, local currency, and/or any other desired article, if desired, provided as Accompaniment  24  or Accompaniment  28 , as appropriate. Such “Outing Books” and/or “Visiting Books” may also be provided to other travelers, such as through travel agencies or airlines for particular destinations.  
         [0063]     Turning now to  FIG. 3 , a portion of an activity book  30  is illustrated. In this Figure, activity book  30  has been opened such that a page  32  is visible. Page  32  includes an Activity  33 , which as discussed previously with respect to  FIG. 1  may include text, photos and the like, suggesting or instructing a reader to engage in a particular activity, visit a particular location, engage in a conversation, or the like. Page  32  also includes an envelope  34 , which may be used to hold other components such as envelopes, envelope enclosures, images, interactive devices, coupons, redeemable cards, tickets, money or any other suitable component, as desired.  
         [0064]     Envelope  34  may, for example, be a small envelope that can have a variety of colors, textures and sizes, and in some cases, can change color with water, heat or sunlight. In some instances, envelope  34  may be used to hold a ‘surprise’ such as, for example, a poem, a ticket, a coupon, money, a verse, a saying, a quote, a question or any other suitable surprise. When more than one envelope  34  is provided, the surprises in two or more of the envelopes  34  may be related in some way. For example, one envelope  34  may include a key that can be used to unlock another envelope  34 . The envelopes  34  may be designed to allow the user to return the ‘surprise’ to the envelope  34  and keep it with the activity book as a keepsake, if desired.  
         [0065]     In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the envelopes  34  may hold ‘smart tags’ or the like, which may, for example, trigger a recorded song or message. Also, it is contemplated that some of the envelopes  34  may be stuffed in another envelope, stacked, or arranged in any other suitable manner. In some cases, some of the envelopes  34  may hold blank paper or include a blank region to allow a user to record a response.  
         [0066]     In  FIG. 4 , envelope  34  has been opened to reveal that envelope  34  included a ticket  36 . In some instances, envelope  34  may include an envelope enclosure that may help retain envelope  34  in a closed position and may include a variety of closures. In some instances, it is contemplated that Velcro™ may be used. In some cases, a lock (not shown) may be used to secure envelope  34  in a closed position.  
         [0067]     In particular,  FIG. 5  illustrates an enclosure  38  that can be a sticker or a dab of wax applied where a flap  40  meets a face  42  of envelope  34 . Stickers may have the same theme as activity book  10 , and may provide additional art interest. It is contemplated that the stickers may be made of any suitable material including, for example, glossy paper with adhesive or glue. Stamped melted wax may be used to help secure envelope  34  in a closed position. Wax may provide a unique and quaint feel, as well as provide additional interest.  
         [0068]     In  FIG. 6 , an enclosure  44  includes a flap post  46 , an envelope post  48  and a string or ribbon  50  wrapped between flap post  46  and envelope post  48 . In some instances, flap post  46  and envelop post  48  may include cardboard circles that have been adhesively attached to flap  40  and face  42 , respectively.  
         [0069]      FIG. 7  illustrates a portion of an activity book  52  that includes a page  54 . Page  54  includes an Activity  33 , as discussed previously, and an enclosure  56  having an open top  58 . Any suitable items, such as the Accompaniments discussed previously, may be provided within enclosure  56 .  
         [0070]     In some instances, activity books may include interactive devices that can provide visual or audio messages to a user. For example, voice or ‘pre-recorded tags’ can be used to incorporate personal sayings, music, a recognized voice; such as, Bob Hope, and may further deepen the impact of the activity books. Enabling a user to pre-select their own message may further personalize an activity book. In some cases, the voice or ‘pre-recorded tags’ may be activated by touching or squeezing the tag, as desired.  
         [0071]      FIG. 8  illustrates a portion of an activity book  60 , which has been opened to reveal a page  62 . Page  62  can be seen to include a device  64  that has a small screen  66 , such as an LCD display, that can be used to display photos, text messages and the like.  
         [0072]     In some instances, it may be desired to provide a user with an ability to record a message for later playback.  FIG. 9  illustrates a portion of an activity book  68 , which has been opened to reveal a page  70 . Page  70  includes a device  72  that includes a speaker  74  that can be used to play audio messages as well as a microphone  76  that can be used by the user to record messages.  
         [0073]      FIG. 10  illustrates a series  78  of activity books including a first series book  80 , a second series book  82  and a third series book  84 . While three books are illustrated, it should be noted that series  78  may include two, four, five or more books, as desired. Second series book  82  may provide activities that build on activities previously referenced in first series book  80 . Similarly, third series book  84  may describe activities that build on activities previously referenced in second series book  82 . Moreover, first series book  80  may foreshadow, or hint at, activities in second series book  82  while second series book  82  may foreshadow activities in third series book  84 .  
         [0074]     In one example, there may be a series of “Date Books”, where the activities in a first “Date Book” may be different from the activities suggested in a second or third “Date Book”. In some cases, the “Series Books” may be provided as monthly or yearly editions, and may be predicated on previous books in the series.  
         [0075]      FIG. 11  illustrates an apparatus  86  in which an activity book  88  is seen as secured relative to a stick  90 . Stick  90  functions as a handle for activity book  88 , and lends additional interest to activity book  88 . Stick  90  may be formed from any suitable material, such as suitable stiff cardboard or plastic, or a relatively thin piece of wood. Activity book  88  may be secured relative to stick  90  using any suitable technique, such as gluing activity book  88  to stick  90 , or perhaps stapling.  
         [0076]     In some instances, an activity book may not include paper at all, but rather may be electronically published.  FIG. 12  illustrates a personal digital assistant (PDA)  92  that may be used in realizing an activity book in accordance with the present invention. PDA  92  includes a screen  94  that may be a touch screen, a power button  96  and several additional buttons  98  that may be used for functions not attainable through screen  94 . In an electronic activity book, accompaniments that facilitate activities discussed within the electronic activity book may include, for example, E-tickets and the like.  
       EXAMPLE A  
     “Valentine&#39;s Day Date Book” for Mall of America™  
       [0077]     The first illustrated example activity book is a “Valentine&#39;s Day Date Book” for use at the Mall of America™, which is located in Bloomington, Minn. While the size of the illustrative activity book is based on practical considerations, it contemplated that the activity books may be created in any size. The illustrative activity book is 5¼″×8½″, and is bound by plastic cording on the left side. High grade 44 lb glossy paper was used. The cover is a clear plastic and the back is a heavy ‘leather’ look, although other materials may be used, as desired. A color printer of high quality was used to print the base book designs, which were created on a computer.  
         [0078]     Some of the pages are completed with appropriate envelopes and/or ‘surprises’. In the illustrative embodiment, the envelopes are affixed by either glue or corner picture holders. The finished pages have holes punched through to enable the plastic cord to be inserted through the pages to hold the book together. In the illustrative example, movie tickets, coupons for a dessert, ride tickets for Camp Snoopy™, and pennies for tossing into the fountain at Camp Snoopy™ are all included. Each page of the illustrative “Valentine&#39;s Day Date Book” will now be described.  
         [0079]      FIG. 13  shows a first page  100  that includes a photo  102  of a bronzed cupid holding two hearts, thereby indicating that this is a Valentine&#39;s Day Date Book. First page  100  also includes a text box  104  that includes a name indicating the source of the Valentine&#39;s Day Date Book, as well as the publication year.  
         [0080]      FIG. 14  shows a second page  106  that, in some instances, may represent an opposite side of first page  100 . Second page  106  includes a large text box  108  that includes welcoming text. Second page  106  also includes a logo  110 , which indicates where this activity book is to be used, as well as an informational text box  112  that includes suggestions to the user regarding movie times and locations. Any suitable colors may be used. In the illustrated example, large text box  108  and informational text box  112  are originally both in white, with dark blue text. Second page  106  has a red color, which is suitable for Valentine&#39;s Day.  
         [0081]      FIG. 15  shows a third page  114  having a red background color. A text box  118  provides appropriate preparatory advice for the two people participating in the Valentine&#39;s Day Date Book. Text box  118  has a white background, with dark blue text. A graphic  120  and a photo  122  of a couple remind the users that the intended event is Valentine&#39;s Day.  
         [0082]      FIG. 16  shows a fourth page  124  that may, in some instances, may represent an opposite side of third page  114 . Third page  114  has a yellow or beige background with a dark blue border. A photo  126  of the Snoopy Gang suggests that the individuals participating in the Valentine&#39;s Day Date Book may be attending Camp Snoopy™. Text  128  includes a reminder regarding logistics, i.e., is the couple meeting at Camp Snoopy™, or is one participant supposed to pick up the other participant? 
         [0083]      FIG. 17  shows a fifth page  130  also having a yellow or beige background with a dark blue border. A photo  132  of a Ferris Wheel defines a starting point for the date. Text box  134 , which is white with blue text, provides instructions intended to spark conversation. An envelope  136 , which is sealed with a happy face sticker  138 , contains tickets for riding the Ferris Wheel.  
         [0084]      FIG. 18  shows a sixth page  140 , which has a tan background, and which may represent an opposite side of fifth page  130 . To set the mood, sixth page  140  includes a photo  142  of Snoopy and Woodstock. Sixth page  140  includes elements intended to further the conversation. Text box  144  includes instructions for the female participant to read comic strip  146  to the male participant while walking towards the fountain in Camp Snoopy™. Text box  148  includes instructions for the male participant to ask her a question related to comic strip  146 .  
         [0085]      FIG. 19  shows a seventh page  150  having a beige background. Seventh page  150  includes a graphic  152  providing a Camp Snoopy™ logo. A text box  154  having a light background and dark text instructs the date participants to find the Snoopy Fountain, walk out on the dock and open an envelope  156 , which is sealed by a first candy heart sticker  158  and a second candy heart sticker  160 . For fun, text box  154  includes a challenge to attempt to throw a penny into the red canoe present near the Snoopy Fountain.  
         [0086]     Envelope  156  includes several items. Two pennies are included so that each participant can attempt to meet the aforementioned challenge. A small piece of paper providing additional conversation topics is also included in envelope  156 . The piece of paper includes statements such as “With this penny, I wish for . . . ”, “With this life, I dream . . . ” and “With this day, I hope that . . . . . . all with you.” 
         [0087]      FIG. 20  shows an eighth page  162  that, in some instances, may be considered as the opposite side of seventh page  150 . Eighth page  162  has a light blue background and includes a photo  164  of two young girls riding the Red Baron ride and a text box  166  that instructs the date participants to walk over to the railing, watch the planes fly around, and discuss their favorite vacations.  
         [0088]      FIG. 21  shows a ninth page  168  having a light blue background. Ninth page  168  includes a graphical cartoon  170  of an airplane, and a text box  172  that, continuing the theme of eighth page  162 , provides additional questions concerning vacations. It is thought that the two participants may discuss answers to these questions, and thereby further their conversation.  
         [0089]      FIG. 22  shows a tenth page  174  that may, in some circumstances, be considered as an opposite side to ninth page  168 . Tenth page  174  has a light gray/green background, and includes a photo  178  of the Log Chute ride and a text box  178 . Text box  178  includes instructions to proceed to the Log Chute ride, and provides a trivia question to discuss during the walk to the Log Chute ride. While the answer to the trivia question is not provided, it is thought that the question may spark further conversation.  
         [0090]      FIG. 23  shows an eleventh page  180  having a light gray/green background. Eleventh page  180  includes an envelope  182  that is sealed shut with a Snoopy sticker  184 . Inside envelope  182  are tickets to the Log Chute ride. Eleventh page  180  includes a Snoopy graphic  186  for fun. A text box  188  provides several suggestions for the couple.  
         [0091]      FIG. 24  shows a twelfth page  190  having a sky blue background. Twelfth page  190  may be considered as an opposite side to eleventh page  180 . Twelfth page  190  includes a graphic  192  of footsteps, which is intended to indicate that the user will be walking out of Camp Snoopy™. Text box  194  includes instructions as to where the user should walk to. A text box  196  and an accompanying graphic  198  introduces another discussion topic.  
         [0092]      FIG. 25  shows a thirteenth page  200  having a sky blue background. The footsteps graphic  192  of  FIG. 24  continues onto thirteenth page  200 . A graphic  202  of a motorcycle and text box  204  introduces another discussion topic.  
         [0093]      FIG. 26  shows a fourteenth page  206  having a pink background. Fourteenth page  206 , which may be considered as an opposite side to thirteenth page  200 , includes a Macy&#39;s™ logo  208  and a Bloomingdales™ log  210 , along with a graphic  212  of an escalator and a graphic  214  of a compass. A text box  216  suggests that the upcoming pages will provide clues as to the user&#39;s next destination.  
         [0094]      FIG. 27  shows a fifteenth page  218  having a pink background. Fifteenth page  218  includes an envelope  220  that is decorated with a black and white polka dot pattern as well as a small Normal Rockwell picture. Envelope  220  is closed with a rose sticker  222 . A graphic  224  of an ice cream sundae is positioned above envelope  220 . A text box  226  includes suggestions for discussion topics.  
         [0095]      FIGS. 28 and 29  provide, in combination, activities for both the male and female participants, and involves several art galleries.  FIG. 28  shows a sixteenth page  227 , which may be considered as an opposite side to fifteenth page  218 . A photo of a sunset is provided as the background to sixteenth page  227 . A text box  228  provides instructions for  FIG. 28  and  FIG. 29 . Another text box  230  instructs the male participant to find a painting in one of the art galleries that demonstrates his favorite season.  
         [0096]     In  FIG. 29 , seventeenth page  232 , bearing a photo of a child sharing an ice cream cone with a puppy as background, includes a text box  230  instructing the female participant to find a painting in one of the art galleries that shows her favorite animal.  
         [0097]      FIG. 30  shows an eighteenth page  236 , which may be considered as an opposite side to seventeenth page  232  and which includes a spring green background. A text box  238  includes instructions to find a bench and open an envelope  240 , which is sealed with a flower sticker  242 . A graphic  244  of a park bench provides ambiance. Envelope  240  includes a piece of paper bearing reading assignments for both date participants. The male participant is instructed to read the side marked with a “Y” to the female participant, while the female participant is instructed to read the side marked with an “X” to the male participant. Each side provides a poem.  
         [0098]     The poem marked with a “Y”, to be read to the female, is “Love&#39;s Philosophy”, by Percy Bysshe Shelley, and reads as follows: 
    ‘The fountains mingle with the river,     and the rivers with the ocean;     The winds of heaven mix forever,     With a sweet emotion;     Nothing in the world is single;     All things by a law divine     In one another&#39;s being mingle;     Why not I with thine?    See! The mountains kiss high heaven,     And the waves clasp one another;     No sister flower would be forgiven,     If it disdained it&#39;s brother;     And the sunlight clasps the earth,     And the moonbeams kiss the sea;     What are all these kissings worth,     If thou kiss not me?’   
 
         [0115]     The poem marked with an “X” , to be read to the male, is “Wild Nights”, by Emily Dickinson, and reads as follows: 
    ‘Wild nights, Wild nights!    Were I with thee,     Wild nights should be     Our luxury!    Futile the winds     To a heart in port     Done with the compass     Done with the chart.     Rowing in Eden.     Ah, the sea.     Might I be moor     Tonight with thee!’   
 
         [0128]      FIG. 31  shows a nineteenth page  246  having a spring green background. A photo  248  of Lego™ Land is provided in the background. An envelope  250 , which is sealed with an Admit One sticker  252  and a popcorn sticker  254 , contains movie tickets. A text box  255  includes instructions for each participant to separate, individually select their own favorite Lego color and Lego figure, and to meet together at the elevator. While on the elevator to the fourth floor, the participants may attempt to guess each other&#39;s favorites.  
         [0129]      FIG. 32  shows a twentieth page  256  having a gray background, and which may be considered as an opposite side to nineteenth page  246 . Twentieth page  256  simply includes a banner  258  announcing the end of the date.  
         [0130]      FIG. 33  shows a twenty-first page  260  having a gray background, and including a photo  262  of a girl waving good-bye. A text box  264  includes parting instructions for the participants.  
         [0131]      FIG. 34  shows a twenty-second page  266  having a deep blue background. Twenty-second page  266  may be considered as an opposite side to twenty-first page  260 . Twenty-second page  266  includes a text box  268  stating who provided the Valentine&#39;s Day Date Book, a Mall of America™ logo  270  and a Camp Snoopy™ logo  272 , both of which indicate sponsorship of, or participation in, the Valentine&#39;s Day Date Book. While not illustrated, the Valentine&#39;s Day Date Book includes a red leather paper back cover.  
       EXAMPLE B  
     “Minnesota State Fair Activity Book on a Stick”  
       [0132]     The illustrative Minnesota State Fair Activity Book on a Stick is 5×5½″, and is bound by plastic cording on the top. High grade of 44 lb glossy paper was used. The cover may be customized for each individual or group, as desired. The back may be designed specifically for advertisement, if desired. Each page may be completed with appropriate envelopes and/or surprises, instructions or activities, as desired. These envelopes may be affixed in a variety of ways, such as; glue, string, ribbon, grommets or corner picture holders.  
         [0133]     In the illustrative embodiment, the last two pages are glued onto a stick to provide the user with a holder for the activity book, resulting in an activity book on a stick. Other attachment mechanisms may also be used to attached the activity book to the stick, and other holders may be used other than a stick such as, for example, a plastic ring or any other suitable handle, as desired. Each page of the illustrative “Minnesota State Fair Activity Book on a Stick” will now be described.  
         [0134]      FIG. 35  shows a cover page  272  that is configured to accommodate a commemorative photo  274  that may be taken by the user at the State Fair. A logo  276  identifies the Minnesota State Fair while a text box  277  identifies the source of the activity book on a stick.  
         [0135]     In some cases, cover page  272  may provide a custom book for individuals or groups, and may be a keepsake for fairgoers. It may also create an incentive for purchasing next year&#39;s activity book. The theme of the illustrative State Fair activity book is not centered on any specific thought—however, theme activity books for the Fair may also be used, if desired. Some illustrative themed activity books may include: an activity book dedicated to animals at the Fair; an activity book dedicated for children under the age of 10 at the Fair; an activity book dedicated to bizarre happenings or events at the Fair, etc.  
         [0136]      FIG. 36  shows a second page  278 , which may be glued to the back of cover page  272 . Second page  278  is created to provide promotions about the Fair—space may be sold to booths or organizations to advertise their products at the Fair. This page is a good example of an activity book that can be dedicated to vendors. Every page may be highlighting a particular paid sponsor. While no sponsors are shown on second page  278 , graphics  280 ,  282  and  284  each show where a sponsor may have identifying text and graphics.  
         [0137]      FIG. 37  shows a third page  286 , which includes a suggestion  288  to get a map of the grounds and in fact includes a small map  290 . Whether the user knows the layout of the Minnesota State Fair or not, this is a helpful little tool to assist the user in getting around at the Fair. Additional attributes to this page may include a map in a pocket or envelope attached to this page. In the illustrative embodiment, color is used on every two pages to provide consistency.  
         [0138]      FIG. 38  shows a fourth page  292 , which may be glued to the back of third page  286 . Fourth page  292  includes a photo  294  of someone eating, and includes a number of icons  296  providing graphical suggestions of food available at the fair. Each of the icons  296  may be scratched to see if the user has won another activity or perhaps a food item at the fair. Fourth page  292  includes an envelope  298  sealed with an ice cream sticker  300 . Envelope  298  may, for example, include a ticket for an ice cream treat. Fourth page  292  also includes a text box  302  reminding the user that food is, indeed, a primary purpose of attending the fair.  
         [0139]      FIG. 39  shows a fifth page  304  that is dedicated to the Pronto-Pup. Fifth page  304  includes a photo  306  of a Pronto-Pup stand, a text box  308  providing little-known facts about the pronto-pup (corn dog) as well as a pronto-pup graphic  310 . An envelope  312  sealed with a mustard sticker  314  may contain a coupon for a free pronto-pup or may instead contain a mustard packet.  
         [0140]      FIG. 40  shows a sixth page  316  that is glued to the back of fifth page  304 . Sixth page  316  includes a surprise graphic  318 , indicating that this page is a surprise. An envelope  320 , sealed with a ticket sticker  322 , may contain any number of items. For example, envelope  320  may include a free pass to a ride, fun money to be used anywhere at the fair, tickets for a Grandstand musical performance, or the like. A state fair logo  324  reminds the user where they are.  
         [0141]      FIG. 41  shows a seventh page  326  that is designed to take the user to the Cattle Barn at the Fair. Seventh page  326  includes a photo  328 , a text box  330  providing suggested activities as well as a text box  332  providing historical information regarding the Cattle Barn. A peel-off blue ribbon  334  is also provided. If the user presents peel-off blue ribbon  334  to a farmer in the Cow Barn, they receive the option of having his/her picture taken with the farmer&#39;s cow. The option may be pre-negotiated with the farmers at the Fair.  
         [0142]      FIG. 42  shows an eighth page  336  that is glued to the back of seventh page  326 . Eighth page  336  includes a total of nine scratch-offs  338 . If a user wins by correctly guessing which scratch-offs  338  to remove, they may be instructed on where to pick up a free pass to the races. It should be recognized, however, that eighth page  336  could also be designed for many different promotional activities at the Fair.  
         [0143]      FIG. 43  shows a ninth page  340  that is designed for fun and to spark conversation. Ninth page  340  can be seen as including a number of correct answers  342  to various food trivia questions, as outlined in text box  344 . While not shown in  FIG. 43 , it is considered that removable stickers would be positioned over each of the correct answers  342 , so that a user would be encouraged to arrive at their own answer before looking it up.  
         [0144]      FIG. 44  shows a tenth page  346  that is glued to the back of ninth page  340 . An umbrella  348  hides a small plastic head cover that can be used if it starts to rain.  
         [0145]      FIG. 45  shows an eleventh page  350  designed to send the user to the Grandstand. Eleventh page  350  includes a photo  352  and a photo  354 . Text box  356  instructs the user to open envelope  358 , which is sealed with a sticker  360 . Inside envelope  358  are lyrics to a song which the user is encouraged to sing. Silver trophy  362  will, if pressed, provide music to support the user&#39;s song via a smart tag (not visible) provided underneath silver trophy  362 .  
         [0146]      FIG. 46  shows a twelfth page  364 , which is glued to the back of eleventh page  350 . Twelfth page  364  is a promotional page which, in the illustrated case, is promoting a MN State Fair fundraising opportunity, via graphics  366 .  
         [0147]      FIG. 47  shows a thirteenth page  368 , which is a surprise page. A photo  370 , which can either be a customized photo or a stock photo, is provided on or in thirteenth page  368 . A graphic  372  instructs the user to pick either envelope  374 , which is sealed by caramel apple sticker  376 , or envelope  378 , which is sealed by lollipop sticker  380 . Any number of surprises may be contained inside envelope  374  and envelope  378 . Examples include a coupon providing the user with a discount at a booth, or perhaps a discount on admission for a subsequent visit to the Fair.  
         [0148]      FIG. 48  shows a fourteenth page  382 , which is glued to the back of thirteenth page  368  and which supports the stick. In the illustrated example, fourteenth page  382 , which is also the back cover, is intended for promotional use, and as such space on fourteenth page  382  could be sold for advertising. As shown, fourteenth page  382  includes several logos and graphics  384  and  386  identifying the State Fair. In some cases, the activity books for each year may be unique, and thus may be considered limited editions.  
         [0149]     The invention should not be considered limited to the particular examples described above, but rather should be understood to cover all aspects of the invention as set out in the attached claims. Various modifications, equivalent processes, as well as numerous structures to which the invention can be applicable will be readily apparent to those of skill in the art upon review of the instant specification.

Technology Category: 7