The Launchpad is a series that introduces Mashable readers to compelling startups. If you would like to have your startup considered for inclusion, please see the details here. If Rooster works as intended, you'll never have an excuse not to read a book again. Plympton, a digital publishing startup with a focus on serialized fiction, unveiled a new iPhone app on Monday called Rooster, which curates suggestions for books to read and then pushes the book out to users in timed installments.
We live in a commuter's world, but our smartphones have yet to catch up. Without cell service or Wi-Fi in the subway or on airplanes -- although that may change -- we're forced to interact with our (generally unpleasant) surroundings. Or maybe not. See also: 10 Better Alternatives to Your iPhone's Native Apps Now those precious minutes underground can be put to good use.
How many books did you read last year? If your answer is more than one, congratulations: you're more well-read than about 25% of Americans over age 16, according to a 2012 Pew Internet survey. Ironically, as we become more surrounded by words in the digital age, less of us are finding time to actually read them. The good news is that your smartphone or tablet can help.