Hot take: That novel you're "too busy" to read? It might be the most radical act of resistance you can do right now.

Amanda Polick is tired of fiction getting a bad rap. You know the types—"I only read TRUE stories" people who act like novels are somehow less valuable than self-help books. But here's the thing: while 40% of Americans didn't crack open a single book in 2025, our leaders are literally telling us not to believe what we see with our own eyes. Coincidence? Amanda doesn't think so.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• Why reading rom-coms and fantasy actually makes you better at spotting BS in real life (hint: unreliable narrators aren't just in books)
• The surprisingly low bar for literacy in America—and why it matters when propaganda is everywhere
• How your brain on fiction is like your brain at the gym (30 minutes = stress relief equivalent to yoga, plus you get smarter)
• Real talk about why that 900-page book is exactly what your shrinking attention span needs

Perfect for: Writers, avid readers, anyone concerned about media literacy and critical thinking, people experiencing reading resistance, educators, and anyone feeling guilty about reading for pleasure during hard times.

Amanda Polick is a cookbook coach and writer. She believes in the power of fiction, librarians, and that red vs. white wine debates are elitist nonsense.

Shownotes: https://www.amandapolick.com/blog/reading-resistance-episode Newsletter: Weekly insights on writing and creativity Connect: Instagram @amandapolick | amandapolick.com Work with Amanda: Apply here