Apple making 'major push' for illustrated titles in iBookstore

Apple is reportedly making a "major push" for more illustrated titles to be available in the iBookstore, specifically photo books, cookbooks and children's books.

According to The New York Times, "some of the most popular children’s picture books of all time will be available" as well as Ad Hoc at Home by chef Thomas Keller, Beginnings by photographer Anne Geddes and In the National Parks, a collection of photos by Ansel Adams.

The iBookstore is set to expand today with these titles and more. Apple has already made deals with multiple major publishers, including HarperCollins, Disney and Macmillan, among others.

With the iPad and its large 9.7-inch color display, you have to wonder why Apple didn't make this push sooner. It seems like a no brainer with a lovely panel like that and how much it is already being used as an educational tool (and sometimes toy) for children. Perhaps the Cupertino-based company was feeling a little envious of the Nook Color, which was already being touted by Barnes & Noble from announcement day as an ideal device for children's books and magazines.