Audiobooks are more popular than ever, yet users still feel embarrassed to say they listened instead of read.
To change that, Monotype and Penguin Random House created Cadence, a font built from the sound waves of spoken letters, celebrating listeners and reminding us every reader was a listener first.
The Ask
Create a type-led idea that explores diverse reading habits and the changing nature of reading
The Insight
Every reader was a listener first
The Idea
Stories are meant to be told
Cadence is a font built from the sound waves created when each letter is spoken. On the left, you can see the audio wave of the letter “A”. That wave was then used to design the Cadence “A.” When letters come together to form words, they mimic real audio waves, creating a cryptic, sound-driven font.
Monotype will use Cadence to intercept moments of waiting and encourage people to listen to audiobooks at our listening booths. These booths allow passersby to slot a book written in Cadence into the listening pad and hear an excerpt from its Penguin audiobook counterpart.
Listening booths utilize RFID technology and directional speakers to give each user an intimate and personal audiobook experience.
A QR code will also lead to Penguin’s audiobook site, encouraging listeners to purchase the whole audiobook to enjoy on their own time.
