I am concerned that we have become a society that cannot read anything longer than a social media post. We have forgotten that reading teaches us discernment, empathy, and perseverance. And yet, 40% of Americans will read zero books this year, and reading for pleasure is declining 3% annually. In this issue, I ponder the question of books and democracy. There is a reason that dystopian books often start with the elimination of reading for large swaths of the population. Hope you enjoy this piece and that you will find a book to read tonight.

As always, the best legal commentary Joyce Vance , the best historical analysis Heather Cox Richardson , the absolute best dystopian novelist Margaret Atwood , and check out my friend Greg Garrett’s new SubStack , Good Trouble . Until next time.