Mars Theory is an independent digital literacy organization in Naperville, Illinois, on a mission to make reading accessible for everyone.
We dismantle barriers to learning by connecting families with curated community resources and developing specialized software, like Lanternway, designed to build lifelong reading habits.
We aren’t affiliated with any religion, church, or faith group. Plainword, our easy-to-read Bible app, is one of several reading tools we make, for people who want to read the Bible but find it hard going.
Where the Name Comes From
Our organization’s name reflects the two core elements of our work:
- Mars represents the imaginative frontier. We champion high-interest formats like speculative fiction, science fiction, fantasy, and manga as equally valid pathways to literacy.
- Theory represents the systematic framework required to reach our goals. Changing literacy outcomes doesn’t happen by accident; it takes deliberate design, secure digital architecture, and low-barrier tools.
Our Values & Beliefs
Meet Readers Where They Are
We recognize that literacy happens in many forms. Whether a reader connects with traditional text, manga, graphic novels, or audiobooks, we treat every format as a valid and equal pathway to comprehension.
The Trade-off: We gladly prioritize genuine engagement over rigid, traditional literary hierarchies that often alienate emerging readers.
Gamify Growth, Not Addiction
Lanternway doesn’t rely on streaks, guilt, or endless notifications that often take the joy out of reading.
The Trade-off: We willingly sacrifice superficial app-engagement tactics and dopamine traps to cultivate healthy, sustainable reading habits that extend beyond the screen.
Protect Readers’ Privacy
We don’t run ads, sell data, or put public social features (like messaging or public profiles) in our apps. With strict privacy protections in mind, we provide a safe and secure environment for readers of all ages.
The Trade-off: We completely reject behavioral advertising and data-monetization business models. Our users’ privacy, safety, and agency will always supersede profit.
Build Ecosystems, Not Silos
Digital tools should enhance real-world connections, not replace them. We build platforms designed to lighten the administrative load for educators and community leaders, while actively connecting local families to essential literacy, ESL, and wellness resources.
The Trade-off: We prioritize empowering users through local connections over confining them to a closed digital ecosystem.
Who We Are
Parker Campbell, MSW: The founder and Executive Director of Mars Theory, Parker bridges the gap between community service and technology.
With a background in social work, library and information science, and digital operations, Parker ensures Mars Theory’s platforms are engineered for uncompromising privacy, neuro-inclusive design, and seamless technical performance.
Our Story
- Early 2024: What began as a quiet frustration with page intimidation and traditional literacy tools quickly grew into an ambitious solo project with an official logo.
- August 2026: The vision moved from concept to reality as legal processes began to establish Mars Theory as a recognized entity, ready for long-term impact.
- Late August – Early September 2026: Development began on the Lanternway reading tracker, the Plainword Bible app, and the official website, establishing initial app architecture alongside neuro-inclusive web design standards.
- Mid-September 2026: Mars Theory launched its Community Resources directory with a focus on local partnerships, while initiating the “Read More” campaign to engage featured authors.
- Late September 2026: Mars Theory officially became an Illinois LLC, launching its public website and expanding community outreach across social channels.
- Mid-October 2026: Small, private beta programs began for both Lanternway and Plainword.
- Late October 2026: Released two free journals, Any Amount Counts and Keep What Helps, and A Week at Pinemoor, a free game about work and the supports that help.
The Next Chapter
Mars Theory LLC is currently registered as an Illinois limited liability company. We are working toward a nonprofit home for our charitable work; until then, payments and in-kind donations to Mars Theory are not tax-deductible.
Connect With Us
- Email: hello@marstheory.org
- Mail: Mars Theory, 2735 Hassert Blvd., Suite 135 #206, Naperville, IL 60564
- Phone: 708-949-6167
- Or use our contact form
We serve Naperville, Bolingbrook, Romeoville, Aurora, and the surrounding communities. Our apps are opening to readers everywhere.