FounderSep 2020 – Jun 2021

Paperback & Earth

Founder

The Problem

Book lovers lacked a dedicated mobile platform that combined reading with community engagement. The challenge was to build, launch, and scale a reading app from zero while competing against established players.

Approach

  • 01

    Launched a mobile reading app on iOS and Android, achieving 1,000+ downloads in the first quarter with 4.8★ average rating

  • 02

    Secured placement in JECRC Incubation Centre, reducing user acquisition costs by 15% and accelerating feature releases by 30%

  • 03

    Built and led a team of 7 developers, designers, and marketers

  • 04

    Ran targeted growth campaigns including campus ambassadors, referral incentives, and social media ads to acquire first 500 users in 6 weeks

  • 05

    Established a Discord community of 250+ readers through 12 virtual events including book clubs, author Q&As, and reading challenges

Outcome

1,000+

App downloads in first quarter

4.8★

Average app store rating

40%

Monthly active user growth

25%

Week-over-week growth rate

250+

Discord community members

35%

User retention boost from community events

Tech Stack & Tools

React NativeFirebaseDiscord APISocial Media AdsApp Store OptimizationCommunity Analytics