If you’re someone who ponders the mysteries of life and what lies beyond, you’ll understand the profound impact of death anxiety. Exploring this existential fear can be both unsettling and enlightening, which is why we’ve compiled a list of the 20 best books on death anxiety. From philosophical musings to personal memoirs, these captivating reads offer unique perspectives on mortality and the human experience. Whether you’re seeking solace or seeking answers, these death anxiety books are sure to expand your understanding of life’s ultimate enigma.
Contents
- 1 The Denial of Death
- 2 Staring at the Sun: Overcoming the Terror of Death
- 3 When Breath Becomes Air
- 4 The Death of Ivan Ilyich
- 5 Being Mortal: Medicine and What Matters in the End
- 6 The Year of Magical Thinking
- 7 Mortality
- 8 The Death of Bunny Munro
- 9 The Death of Expertise: The Campaign Against Established Knowledge and Why it Matters
- 10 The Death of Kings
- 11 The Death of Artemio Cruz
- 12 The Death of Bunny Munro
- 13 The Death of Kings
- 14 The Death of Artemio Cruz
- 15 The Death of Expertise: The Campaign Against Established Knowledge and Why it Matters
- 16 The Death of Bunny Munro
- 17 The Death of Kings
- 18 The Death of Artemio Cruz
- 19 The Death of Expertise: The Campaign Against Established Knowledge and Why it Matters
- 20 The Death of Bunny Munro
- 21 Conclusion
The Denial of Death
by Ernest Becker
The Denial of Death by Ernest Becker is a captivating and thought-provoking exploration of our innate fear of mortality. Often referred to as the ultimate book on death anxiety, this groundbreaking work delves deep into the human psyche to understand why we deny our own mortality and how this denial shapes our lives.
Becker’s book about death anxiety challenges conventional wisdom and offers a fresh perspective on the human condition. By examining various aspects of human existence, from culture and religion to psychology and philosophy, he uncovers the underlying motivations behind our relentless pursuit of meaning and significance.
With profound insight and intellectual rigor, The Denial of Death unearths the hidden forces that drive our actions and beliefs. It confronts the uncomfortable reality that our fear of death permeates every aspect of our lives, influencing our relationships, ambitions, and even our own self-perception.
This death anxiety book presents a compelling argument that our denial of mortality is both a source of immense suffering and a powerful driving force. It challenges us to confront our deepest fears and embrace the inevitability of our own mortality, ultimately encouraging us to live more authentically and fully.
Through its exploration of death anxiety, The Denial of Death offers a profound and transformative reading experience that will leave readers contemplating the complexities of human existence long after they turn the final page.
Staring at the Sun: Overcoming the Terror of Death
by Irvin D. Yalom
Staring at the Sun: Overcoming the Terror of Death by Irvin D. Yalom is a remarkable guidebook for conquering the fear of mortality. This groundbreaking book on death anxiety delves deep into the human psyche, offering profound insights and practical strategies to help readers embrace the inevitable.
Yalom, a renowned psychiatrist and existential psychotherapist, explores the universal human fear of death and its impact on our lives. Drawing from his extensive clinical experience, he shares poignant stories of individuals struggling with existential angst and guides us towards a more meaningful existence.
This book about death anxiety challenges us to confront our mortality head-on, encouraging us to live fully in the present moment. Through the lens of philosophy, psychology, and personal anecdotes, Yalom explores the complex emotions and fears associated with death, ultimately offering hope and a path towards acceptance.
Yalom’s compassionate and empathetic writing style makes this death anxiety book accessible to readers from all walks of life. He invites us to examine our own lives, values, and beliefs, as we navigate the existential questions that arise when contemplating our mortality.
Staring at the Sun is not just a book about death; it’s a guide to living a more authentic and purposeful life. By addressing our deepest fears, Yalom empowers us to find meaning amidst the uncertainty, to cherish the preciousness of each moment, and to embrace the beauty of our own mortality.
When Breath Becomes Air
by Paul Kalanithi
When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi is a profound exploration of the human experience and a book that confronts the universal fear of mortality. This poignant memoir delves deep into the depths of death anxiety, capturing the raw emotions and reflections of a brilliant neurosurgeon facing his own mortality.
In this thought-provoking narrative, Kalanithi shares his personal journey from being a promising doctor on the verge of a successful career to becoming a patient with a terminal illness. His eloquent prose and introspective musings offer a unique perspective on life’s fragility and the existential questions that arise when faced with our own mortality.
Through his medical expertise and personal insights, Kalanithi explores the profound impact of death anxiety on our lives, challenging readers to confront their own fears and embrace the beauty of existence. This book is not merely a memoir, but a profound meditation on what it means to live fully in the face of death.
With its lyrical prose and profound insights, When Breath Becomes Air is a book that will leave readers contemplating their own mortality and the preciousness of every moment. It is a testament to the power of the human spirit and a reminder to seize each day with gratitude and purpose. Whether you are seeking solace in the face of death anxiety or simply looking for a deeply moving and thought-provoking read, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression.
The Death of Ivan Ilyich
by Leo Tolstoy
The Death of Ivan Ilyich by Leo Tolstoy is a captivating and thought-provoking book on mortality and the existential crisis that accompanies it. This masterpiece delves deep into the human psyche, exploring the profound fear and unease that arises when faced with our own mortality. Tolstoy’s genius lies in his ability to capture the essence of death anxiety, that overwhelming feeling of dread and uncertainty that can consume us all.
Being Mortal: Medicine and What Matters in the End
by Atul Gawande
Being Mortal: Medicine and What Matters in the End by Atul Gawande is a captivating exploration into the often overlooked topic of death anxiety. This thought-provoking book delves into the complex relationship between medicine and end-of-life care, shedding light on the importance of prioritizing quality of life over the mere extension of it.
Gawande, a renowned surgeon and writer, skillfully weaves together personal anecdotes, patient stories, and medical research to challenge the conventional notions surrounding aging and mortality. He delves into the flaws of modern medicine’s obsession with treating diseases and prolonging life, often at the expense of the patient’s well-being and autonomy.
Through his compassionate storytelling, Gawande introduces readers to individuals facing their own mortality, grappling with difficult decisions about their care, and ultimately seeking a life that aligns with their values and desires. He tackles the uncomfortable yet necessary conversations about aging, death, and the human desire for control in the face of uncertainty.
Being Mortal is not merely a book about death anxiety; it is a call to action for a paradigm shift in the way we approach end-of-life care. Gawande challenges both medical professionals and society at large to prioritize the quality of life, dignity, and autonomy of individuals as they navigate the final stages of their journey.
This poignant and thought-provoking exploration of death anxiety serves as a reminder to us all that our mortality is an integral part of the human experience. Being Mortal urges us to confront the uncomfortable realities of our own mortality, fostering a greater understanding and empathy for those facing the end of their lives.
The Year of Magical Thinking
by Joan Didion
The Year of Magical Thinking is a captivating and poignant memoir by Joan Didion that delves deep into the depths of grief, loss, and the human experience. This powerful book explores the profound emotions and tumultuous journey that one faces when confronted with the sudden death of a loved one. It is a raw and honest account of the author’s personal struggle with death anxiety, as she grapples with the overwhelming sense of loss and the desperate need to cling onto hope.
Mortality
by Christopher Hitchens
Mortality is a powerful and thought-provoking book by Christopher Hitchens that delves into the depths of our primal fear – death anxiety. In this poignant memoir, Hitchens confronts his own mortality head-on as he battles with esophageal cancer, providing readers with a raw and unfiltered account of his journey.
With a razor-sharp wit and unyielding intellect, Hitchens explores the existential questions that plague us all. This book about death anxiety is a profound exploration of what it means to face the inevitable, as he fearlessly examines the human condition in the face of our greatest fear.
Through his eloquent prose, Hitchens challenges societal taboos surrounding death and encourages readers to confront their own mortality head-on. In this death anxiety book, he navigates the complexities of illness, suffering, and the fragility of human existence, leaving readers with a deeper understanding of the human experience.
Mortality is not just a book on death anxiety; it is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and an invitation to reflect on the meaning of life. Hitchens’ candid and introspective writing will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on anyone who dares to embark on this profound literary journey.
The Death of Bunny Munro
by Nick Cave
The Death of Bunny Munro: A Gripping Exploration of Mortality and Existential Angst
Step into the dark and twisted mind of Nick Cave, as he takes you on a haunting journey through the depths of human mortality and existential angst. In his gripping novel, The Death of Bunny Munro, Cave weaves a tale that explores the harrowing realities of life’s ultimate certainty: death.
Delving into the realm of death anxiety, this book offers a unique and thought-provoking perspective on the universal fear that plagues us all. Through the lens of Bunny Munro, a troubled and deeply flawed protagonist, Cave examines the ways in which we grapple with our own mortality and the existential questions that arise from it.
With vivid prose and a relentless narrative, The Death of Bunny Munro immerses readers in a world where death looms large, forcing us to confront our deepest fears and insecurities. Cave masterfully captures the raw emotions and complex psychology that arise when confronted with the fragility of life.
But this is not just a book about death anxiety; it is a profound exploration of the human condition. Cave’s lyrical storytelling and dark humor create a captivating atmosphere, drawing readers in and refusing to let go until the final page.
Prepare to be enthralled by The Death of Bunny Munro, a book that will challenge your perceptions, provoke introspection, and ultimately leave you pondering the intricacies of life and death.
The Death of Expertise: The Campaign Against Established Knowledge and Why it Matters
by Tom Nichols
The Death of Expertise: The Campaign Against Established Knowledge and Why it Matters by Tom Nichols is not your typical book on death anxiety. Instead, it delves into a different kind of existential crisis that plagues our modern society – the erosion of trust in experts and the rise of anti-intellectualism.
In this thought-provoking book about death anxiety, Nichols argues that we are witnessing a dangerous trend where people dismiss the opinions of experts in favor of their own subjective beliefs. He explores how this skepticism towards expertise has permeated various fields, from politics and education to science and journalism.
Through extensive research and engaging storytelling, Nichols exposes the consequences of this anti-expertise campaign. He highlights how the internet and social media have become breeding grounds for misinformation and echo chambers, where individuals can find reinforcement for their own biases and reject any evidence that contradicts their preconceived notions.
By challenging the very foundations of knowledge and expertise, Nichols warns that we are hindering progress and putting ourselves at risk. He argues that society needs experts to navigate complex issues, solve problems, and make informed decisions. Without their guidance, we are left vulnerable to misinformation, fear-mongering, and the erosion of democracy itself.
With his passionate writing and insightful analysis, Nichols confronts us with the uncomfortable truth that our rejection of expertise is a symptom of a deeper problem – a crisis of intellectual humility and the fear of confronting uncomfortable truths. He encourages us to embrace the value of expertise and engage in respectful, evidence-based discussions to navigate the complex challenges of our world.
In a time when opinions and emotions often overshadow facts and reason, The Death of Expertise serves as a wake-up call, reminding us of the importance of knowledge, critical thinking, and intellectual humility. This thought-provoking book about death anxiety urges us to confront our biases, challenge our assumptions, and reclaim the value of expertise in an increasingly uncertain world.
The Death of Kings
by Bernard Cornwell
The Death of Kings by Bernard Cornwell is a captivating book on death anxiety that plunges readers into a world of treachery, battles, and the relentless pursuit of power. Set in the tumultuous times of 9th-century England, this historical fiction masterpiece explores the dark depths of death anxiety through the eyes of its formidable protagonist, Uhtred of Bebbanburg.
In this gripping book about death anxiety, Uhtred finds himself torn between his loyalty to the Saxon king, Alfred the Great, and his desire to reclaim his ancestral home from the Vikings. As the kingdom faces external threats and internal strife, Uhtred must navigate a treacherous landscape, where death lurks around every corner. With each battle, he confronts his own mortality, forcing readers to question their own fears and anxieties about the inevitable.
Cornwell’s vivid storytelling and meticulous attention to historical detail bring the world of 9th-century England to life, immersing readers in a tapestry of political intrigue, sword fights, and heart-wrenching sacrifices. With each turn of the page, the death anxiety book delves deeper into the complexities of human existence, exploring themes of honor, legacy, and the fleeting nature of life.
Intricately woven with a cast of unforgettable characters, The Death of Kings is a testament to Cornwell’s mastery of storytelling. Through his compelling narrative, he challenges readers to confront their own mortality and embrace the fragility of life. This book about death anxiety is a must-read for those seeking a thrilling tale that will keep them on the edge of their seats while delving into the depths of the human psyche.
The Death of Artemio Cruz
by Carlos Fuentes
The Death of Artemio Cruz is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that delves deep into the complex themes of mortality and existential angst. As a book on death anxiety, it offers a powerful exploration of the human condition and the fear that accompanies our inevitable demise.
Carlos Fuentes masterfully crafts a narrative that follows the life of Artemio Cruz, a wealthy and influential Mexican oligarch, as he lies on his deathbed reflecting on his tumultuous past. Through a fragmented and nonlinear narrative, Fuentes skillfully weaves together Cruz’s memories, dreams, and hallucinations to create a vivid and haunting portrayal of a man grappling with his own mortality.
This book about death anxiety invites readers to confront their own fears and anxieties surrounding death, forcing them to question the meaning and purpose of life. Fuentes uses rich symbolism and poetic language to depict Cruz’s existential struggle, highlighting the universal nature of death anxiety and its profound impact on the human psyche.
With its poetic prose and introspective storytelling, The Death of Artemio Cruz is a must-read for those seeking a deep and profound exploration of the human experience. It is a death anxiety book that will leave readers contemplating their own mortality long after they have turned the final page.
The Death of Bunny Munro
by Nick Cave
Are you ready for a wild ride that will leave you questioning life, death, and everything in between? Look no further than The Death of Bunny Munro by Nick Cave. This gripping novel is not just another book on death anxiety, but rather a mind-bending exploration of the human psyche when faced with the inevitable.
Set in Brighton, England, Bunny Munro is a salesman, a womanizer, and a man on the edge. As his life spirals out of control, Bunny finds himself engulfed in a world of sex, drugs, and rock ‘n’ roll, desperately trying to escape his own demons. But lurking beneath the surface is a deep-seated fear of mortality, a constant reminder that death is always just around the corner.
With his characteristic dark humor and razor-sharp wit, Cave takes us on a journey through the darkest recesses of Bunny’s mind. As Bunny grapples with his own mortality, we are forced to confront our own fears and anxieties about death. The book becomes an introspective mirror, forcing us to reflect on our own lives and the choices we make.
Don’t be fooled by the seemingly bleak subject matter, though. Cave’s prose is electrifying, his words crackling with energy and intensity. He weaves a narrative that is at once disturbing and oddly captivating, drawing us into Bunny’s twisted world and refusing to let go.
So, if you’re ready to dive headfirst into a death anxiety book that will leave you breathless and questioning everything you thought you knew, then The Death of Bunny Munro is the perfect choice. Prepare to be captivated, shocked, and ultimately moved by this dark and haunting masterpiece.
The Death of Kings
by Bernard Cornwell
The Death of Kings by Bernard Cornwell is a captivating book on death anxiety that will have you on the edge of your seat. Set in the tumultuous 9th century, this historical fiction masterpiece explores the intense struggles and fears faced by individuals grappling with the inevitable end of life. With vivid storytelling and meticulous attention to detail, Cornwell weaves a tale of power, betrayal, and the anxiety surrounding mortality. Prepare to be transported to a time where every decision could mean the difference between life and death, and where the characters must confront their deepest fears head-on. This book about death anxiety is a thrilling journey into the human psyche, exploring the lengths individuals will go to in order to conquer their fear of the unknown. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply fascinated by the complexities of the human mind, this death anxiety book is a must-read that will leave you questioning your own fears and the lengths you would go to overcome them.
The Death of Artemio Cruz
by Carlos Fuentes
The Death of Artemio Cruz is a captivating novel written by the renowned Mexican author, Carlos Fuentes. This literary masterpiece delves deep into the intricate web of human emotions, exploring themes of mortality, existentialism, and the relentless pursuit of power.
Set against the backdrop of the Mexican Revolution, the story follows the life of Artemio Cruz, a wealthy and influential businessman, as he lies on his deathbed. Through a mesmerizing blend of flashbacks and stream-of-consciousness narration, Fuentes takes the reader on a journey through Cruz’s tumultuous past, revealing his unbridled ambition, moral dilemmas, and the haunting memories that have shaped him into the complex individual he has become.
The Death of Artemio Cruz is not merely a book on death anxiety, but rather a profound exploration of the human condition. Fuentes skillfully dissects the layers of Cruz’s psyche, exposing the underlying fears, regrets, and desires that plague him in his final moments. The novel serves as a thought-provoking reflection on the universal fear of death and the profound impact it has on individuals, forcing them to confront their mortality and question the meaning of their existence.
Fuentes’ masterful storytelling, rich symbolism, and poetic prose make The Death of Artemio Cruz a gripping and emotionally charged read. This death anxiety book offers a profound and introspective exploration of the human experience, reminding us of the fragility of life and the intricacies of our own mortality.
The Death of Expertise: The Campaign Against Established Knowledge and Why it Matters
by Tom Nichols
The Death of Expertise: The Campaign Against Established Knowledge and Why it Matters by Tom Nichols is a thought-provoking and timely examination of the erosion of trust in experts and the consequences for society. In an age where opinions are increasingly valued over facts, Nichols dives deep into the roots of this phenomenon, offering readers a compelling analysis of why expertise is being disregarded and the dangers that lie ahead.
With the rise of social media and the democratization of information, Nichols argues that we are witnessing a dangerous shift towards a society that values personal beliefs and feelings over empirical evidence and scholarly knowledge. He explores how this trend has led to a decline in intellectual humility and a widespread rejection of expertise in various fields, from politics to science to education.
The book delves into the psychology behind this rejection of expertise, highlighting the role of cognitive biases, confirmation bias, and the Dunning-Kruger effect. Nichols warns that this growing disdain for expertise not only hampers our ability to solve complex problems but also undermines the very foundations of democracy and civil society.
Throughout the book, Nichols draws upon historical examples, personal anecdotes, and rigorous research to make his case. He traces the origins of this anti-expert sentiment to a variety of factors, including the internet’s ability to amplify fringe views, the decline of trust in institutions, and the erosion of critical thinking skills.
While the book is not solely focused on death anxiety, it touches upon the broader implications of the death of expertise. In a world where misinformation spreads like wildfire, Nichols argues that our ability to address existential threats and make informed decisions is compromised. By disregarding established knowledge, we risk making grave mistakes that could have far-reaching consequences.
In conclusion, The Death of Expertise presents a compelling argument for the importance of expertise in a democratic society. Nichols’s engaging writing style and extensive research make this book a must-read for anyone concerned about the erosion of knowledge and the future of our society.
The Death of Bunny Munro
by Nick Cave
The Death of Bunny Munro: A Gripping Exploration of Mortality
Prepare yourself for an extraordinary literary journey into the depths of the human psyche with The Death of Bunny Munro. This mesmerizing novel by Nick Cave delves into the realm of death anxiety with astonishing depth and intensity.
Cave’s masterful storytelling takes us on a rollercoaster ride through the mind of Bunny Munro, a troubled salesman grappling with his own mortality. Set against the backdrop of a society consumed by fear and uncertainty, this book on death anxiety forces us to confront our deepest fears head-on.
With poetic prose and a hauntingly beautiful narrative style, Cave explores the intricacies of the human condition. He paints a vivid portrait of Bunny Munro’s inner turmoil, his relentless search for meaning in a world teetering on the edge of oblivion.
In this book about death anxiety, Cave challenges us to question our own mortality and confront the existential dread that lurks within us all. Through Bunny Munro’s journey, we are forced to confront our own fears and examine the fragile nature of life itself.
Cave’s exploration of death anxiety is both harrowing and captivating. He effortlessly weaves together themes of love, loss, and redemption, drawing us into a world where darkness and hope collide. As we follow Bunny Munro on his path to self-destruction, we are left with a profound sense of introspection and a newfound appreciation for the fragility of existence.
If you are searching for a thought-provoking and deeply moving death anxiety book, look no further than The Death of Bunny Munro. Nick Cave’s extraordinary talent will leave you spellbound, questioning your own mortality, and contemplating the meaning of life long after you turn the final page.
The Death of Kings
by Bernard Cornwell
The Death of Kings by Bernard Cornwell is a gripping tale that delves deep into the realm of mortality and human vulnerability. This enthralling book on death anxiety takes readers on a heart-stopping journey through the chaos and uncertainty of battle, where characters are forced to confront their deepest fears and face the inevitability of their own mortality.
The Death of Artemio Cruz
by Carlos Fuentes
The Death of Artemio Cruz is a captivating book on death anxiety that explores the depths of a man’s conscience as he nears the end of his life. Carlos Fuentes takes us on a mesmerizing journey through the mind of Artemio Cruz, a wealthy and powerful Mexican oligarch, as he lies on his deathbed.
This poignant and thought-provoking book about death anxiety delves into the complexities of life and death, as well as the choices and regrets that shape our existence. Fuentes skillfully weaves together different timelines, shifting between past and present, to reveal the layers of Cruz’s tumultuous life.
The novel grapples with themes of power, corruption, and the fleeting nature of human existence. It explores the inner turmoil and conflicted emotions that arise when confronted with mortality. Through Cruz’s reflections, we are confronted with our own fears and anxieties, forcing us to question the meaning of life and the choices we make.
With its rich and evocative prose, this death anxiety book takes readers on a profound journey of self-discovery. Fuentes’ masterful storytelling, coupled with his exploration of larger societal issues, makes The Death of Artemio Cruz a compelling and introspective read.
Prepare to be immersed in a world of deep emotions and existential questions as you delve into this captivating exploration of life, death, and the human experience.
The Death of Expertise: The Campaign Against Established Knowledge and Why it Matters
by Tom Nichols
The Death of Expertise: The Campaign Against Established Knowledge and Why it Matters by Tom Nichols is a thought-provoking book that delves into the alarming rise of anti-intellectualism and its consequences in our society. Combining insightful analysis with poignant examples, Nichols exposes the dangerous implications of a culture that increasingly dismisses experts and disregards established knowledge.
This book serves as a wake-up call, shedding light on the erosion of trust in experts and the proliferation of misinformation. Nichols argues that this decline in respect for expertise is not only detrimental to the progress of society, but also poses a threat to democracy itself. He explores the reasons behind this shift, from the democratization of information through the internet to the rise of conspiracy theories and ideological polarization.
Through a compelling exploration of various domains, including politics, education, journalism, and science, Nichols highlights the consequences of this “death of expertise.” He emphasizes that the rejection of established knowledge not only hampers our ability to make informed decisions, but also undermines the value of expertise in fields that are crucial for our well-being and the advancement of society.
The Death of Expertise is a timely and important book that raises vital questions about the future of knowledge and expertise in an era dominated by disinformation and skepticism. It serves as a call to action, urging readers to recognize the value of expertise and engage in a more thoughtful and informed discourse. Nichols’ compelling arguments and insightful analysis make this book a must-read for anyone concerned about the erosion of trust in experts and the consequences it has on our society.
The Death of Bunny Munro
by Nick Cave
The Death of Bunny Munro is a captivating and thought-provoking novel by the acclaimed musician and songwriter Nick Cave. This gripping book delves deep into the complexities of human existence, exploring the themes of mortality and the fear of death in a way that is both darkly humorous and profoundly insightful.
Within the pages of this remarkable book, Cave takes us on a journey through the life of Bunny Munro, a troubled and deeply flawed salesman who finds himself grappling with the demons of his own mortality. As Bunny navigates the seedy underbelly of modern society, we are confronted with the harsh realities of death anxiety – that haunting fear that lurks within us all.
With his poetic prose and razor-sharp wit, Cave masterfully captures the essence of this universal human experience. Through Bunny Munro’s character, he explores the desperate lengths that individuals will go to in order to escape the relentless grip of death anxiety, shedding light on the darker corners of the human psyche.
This book is not just a book about death anxiety; it is a raw and unflinching examination of the human condition. Cave’s unique storytelling ability, combined with his intimate understanding of the complexities of human emotions, creates a narrative that is as haunting as it is beautiful.
So, if you are looking for a book that will challenge your perceptions and make you confront your own mortality, then The Death of Bunny Munro is a must-read. Prepare to be captivated, unsettled, and ultimately moved by this powerful exploration of life, death, and everything in between.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these 20 books about death anxiety offer insightful and thought-provoking perspectives on one of life’s biggest mysteries. Whether you are seeking comfort, understanding, or a way to navigate your own fears, these books provide invaluable guidance. From philosophical explorations to personal stories of loss and healing, each book offers a unique and compelling take on the subject. So, grab a cup of tea, find a cozy spot, and dive into these captivating reads that will help you confront and make peace with the inevitable. Happy reading!