A New Zealand start-up called Booktrack adds movie-type sound tracks to e-books. Paul Cameron, CEO, cofounder, and director of Booktrack, says the concept is akin to adding sound to silent films and “brings books alive.” Booktrack even adjusts to an individual’s reading speed. HRSBT just wonders—would this work with books on human resources and compensation?
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The inventors have said they got the idea from learning that Stephenie Meyer, the author of the Twilight books, blogged that she listened to certain songs when writing various scenes in the books.
Of course, the patented content platform is perfect for nonfiction! Just think what the sound,track of “Jaws” added to the movie—similar music could accompany the reading of mysteries and science fiction. And, nonfiction books about other countries and cultures could have sound,tracks featuring appropriate accompaniment.
Booktrack already has 45 titles with sound,tracks added. However, readers can create their own sound,tracks from a library of 20,000 audio files and then “publish” their e-book, short story, play or movie script, or even poetry on the Booktrack Library distribution platform for others to enjoy.
But do you think this concept would work with books about compensation, benefits, employment law compliance, or best HR practices? What music would be fitting for these? Does classical reflect the seriousness of the subjects, or would jazz show how HR pros must improvise to keep things running smoothly? Or, maybe some pop or country songs would be appropriate (but definitely not “Take this Job and Shove It”).
Any ideas? Send them to your HRSBT editor at HRSBTstories@blr.com.
It seems like pacing would be a problem. Unlike movies and TV shows, the reader controls the pace of consumption, which lag behind or jump ahead of the accompanying music.