Many people find it harder to concentrate on a book than it was a few years ago. Smartphones now dominate our spare time, acting as a constant distraction that keeps us from long-form reading. This shift often feels involuntary, yet it impacts our ability to process complex arguments and think through ideas. Research shows that literacy rates are struggling across developed nations, creating a challenge for intellectual health.
Novelist Naomi Alderman observes that our devices are sized like cigarettes for a reason, designed to capture attention in short, addictive bursts. She points out that the effort to read has become a hurdle, even for those who value books. Much like starting a physical fitness plan, rebuilding a reading habit requires intentional steps and consistent practice.
Alderman has introduced an eight-week training program designed to help people reclaim their focus. The scheme focuses on small, manageable sessions that gradually build up to 30 minutes of daily reading. The goal is to move away from the brain fog of constant digital scrolling and return to the steady immersion of a story.
Participants are already reporting positive changes after just a few days. They describe feeling calmer during stressful moments and regaining the ability to watch films or complete tasks without reaching for their phones. The program offers different tracks for those with limited time or those wanting to tackle more demanding literature.
This initiative serves as a reminder that we can regain control over our attention. By setting aside the phone and committing to a few minutes of reading each day, it is possible to recover the habit of deep engagement. The program is currently active, and new participants can join at any time by starting from the first day.