Put Down The Phone And Read A Book

Like I said in my last post, I’ve been enjoying reading again, especially thanks to my Kindle. Nearing the end of my current book, I’m faced with the common question: which book should I read next? With many good ones on my to-read list, this can be a tough choice. Besides that, with many good games to play — and so little time — things get even tougher. There happens to be, though, a certain non-fiction book that I’m eager to soak into my brain. But there’s also another particular fiction novel that I NEED to read.

The Anxious Generation

By Jonathan Haidt. I’ve heard a lot about this book and have listened to several podcasts that interview the author, discussing the major points about the book. Even without having read it yet, I feel like I could recommend it to others. It’s a must-read to me. Though if I were to wait, I can imagine a 2nd edition being published that further expands and clarifies the subject.

By the way, this relates to Cal Newport’s Digital Minimalism. Its similar subject involves many of today’s tech devices, but especially the smartphone. Cal could likely write a book called, “The Distracted Generation.” Smartphone and social media “addiction” is a real issue. Even epidemic.

The Lord of the Rings

By J.R.R. Tolkien. I’ve had this book on my to-read list for years. In fact, I started it once but didn’t get far into it. Why? Because after having watched the movies many times, the story in the book progressed too slowly. I plan to start over and read this someday. And that day might be near thanks to a recent State of the Arc podcast I enjoyed. The hosts discuss the book with detail and enthusiasm. Besides that, this book is THE quintessential masterpiece of high-fantasy. It’s almost a civic duty to read it.

I think I’ll enjoy LOTR, but it’s a huge novel and thus time commitment. And I would prefer to read the whole story in one volume rather than three separate books. The Anxious Generation is relatively short and more pressing to me. Either way, both are good options that I look forward to.