Tech startup Likewise has announced an expanded partnership Simon & Schuster that will enable the entertainment platform to further provide personalized author and book title recommendations to users across its suite of media platforms. According to a July 12 press release, Likewise has been granted access to S&S's expansive catalog to promote book-related content in its entertainment newsletters, mobile and TV apps, social media properties and website.
“Readers have been central to the Likewise community from the very beginning,” said Ian Morris, co-founder and CEO of Likewise. “Extending our partnership with Simon & Schuster and the expansive range of authors and titles they represent is an exciting opportunity to create even more of the custom content, lively discussions, and personalized book recommendations for their readers and our vibrant community.”
Launched in 2018, Likewise brings together a community of readers to discover, catalog and share their favorite books. According to Likewise, "the average Likewise user reads 3.5 books per month and nearly half have purchased a book they saw on Likewise."
Additionally, the platform pairs artificial intelligence with more than 450 million recommendations by users to help readers discover bestselling books and older books that match their interests. Through two branded in-app communities—Book Club Favorites and Stephen King Fans—S&S will host behind-the-scenes discussions about upcoming releases, sneak peeks at new books from bestselling authors, and exclusive events with well-known authors including Lisa See, author of Lady Tan’s Circle of Women.
S&S executive v-p and chief marketing officer Liz Perl said the partnership with Likewise will help the publishing company introduce its books and authors to the "right audience at the right time."
“We are excited to extend our collaboration, find and create new fans, and bring new books and genres to engaged readers,” she added.
