In an effort to entice more young readers, publisher Simon & Schuster has launched a texting program. In conjunction with Mobile Commons, the texting is aimed at Young Adult readers.
The initial books for the texting program are the Leviathan trilogy by Scott Westerfeld. “Texters” can text “SCOTT” to read installments, enter a contest to win a “coffee date” with the author and get updates on future installments and contests. Also, heading out into the “texting” world is The Blessed by author Tonya Hurley. “Texters” can text “BLESSED” to get not only chapters, but they also win a guitar.
From Simon & Schusters press release: “The Simon & Schuster author campaigns will use the consumer relationship tools on the Mobile Commons user dashboard, which include message editing, data segmenting, targeting, URL tracking, QR codes, and MMS (multimedia messaging). Simon & Schuster will also use the platform’s real-time analytics and reporting to help them better personalize their communicaions with their teen readers.”
