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Books and Movies to Help You Hold Your Attention

2024-12-14

In 2022, our editors at The Wonder Reader embarked on a mission to recommend a set of stories that would ignite your curiosity and fill you with joy. By signing up here, you can receive this delightful newsletter every Saturday morning. Our colleague Megan Garber reflected on the transactional nature of attention that year. She wrote, "Far too often, I find myself mindlessly clicking on an enticing headline, reading, and then regretting. I pay my attention; I instantly wish for a refund." It's clear that attention is easily given up yet hard to obtain when truly needed - perhaps when trying to get work done while kids are running around or when the habit of social-media scrolling makes it seem impossible to simply sit down with a book. Immersion is a true luxury; when a person becomes truly engrossed in a project or a piece of art, they emerge feeling as if they've lived a bit more. Today's newsletter gathers some books and movies to get lost in - or, if your attention span is fleeting, to provide quick entertainment.

On Attention

Seven Books That Will Make You Put Down Your Phone

These titles are consciously designed to capture the reader's attention. They offer a unique reading experience that pulls you away from the distractions of modern life. Each book has its own charm and story to tell, making you forget about your phone and immerse yourself in a world of words. 1: These seven books are a testament to the power of literature to engage and captivate. They take you on journeys through different eras and cultures, introducing you to new ideas and perspectives. Whether it's a historical novel or a contemporary tale, these books have the ability to hold your attention and make you forget about the outside world. 2: The authors of these books have mastered the art of storytelling, using vivid descriptions and engaging plots to keep you hooked from start to finish. They understand that in a world filled with distractions, it takes something special to make a reader pause and give their full attention. These books are that something.

Six Acclaimed Movies With Short Runtimes

Bring back the 90-minute film! These movies offer a concise yet powerful viewing experience. They manage to convey a complete story within a short amount of time, leaving you with a lasting impression. 1: These six movies are a testament to the power of cinema to tell a story in a limited amount of time. They are carefully crafted to capture the essence of a story and leave the audience wanting more. Whether it's a drama, a comedy, or a thriller, these movies have it all. 2: The directors of these movies have a keen eye for detail and a talent for creating tension and emotion. They know how to use every second of the screen time to maximum effect, making these short movies just as engaging as their longer counterparts.

The Great Fracturing of American Attention

Why resisting distraction is one of the foundational challenges of this moment. In a world filled with constant distractions, it's becoming increasingly difficult to focus and stay engaged. These articles explore the reasons behind this phenomenon and offer insights on how to overcome it. 1: The Great Fracturing of American Attention is a topic that affects us all. With the rise of technology and the constant barrage of information, it's becoming harder and harder to concentrate on a single task. These articles delve into the reasons behind this and offer practical solutions to help us regain our focus. 2: By understanding the factors that contribute to distraction, we can take steps to minimize its impact on our lives. Whether it's through mindfulness practices or setting boundaries, there are ways to break free from the cycle of distraction and reclaim our attention.

Still Curious?

Twenty TV shows for short attention spans: For both quick laughs and thoughtful reflections, try one of these highly bingeable half-hour comedies. Shirley Li wrote about these shows in 2022, highlighting their ability to provide entertainment in a short amount of time.Seven true stories that read like thrillers: These immersive works of journalism follow ordinary Americans facing long odds. They offer a glimpse into the lives of people who are dealing with extraordinary situations and show the power of storytelling to captivate and inspire.

Other Diversions

Nickel Boys is an audacious experiment. It takes you on a journey into a world that is both familiar and陌生. This book challenges your assumptions and makes you think about important issues in a new way.Read these six books - just trust us. These six books are a hidden gem, waiting to be discovered. They offer a unique reading experience that you won't find anywhere else.Hopeful images from 2024: These images bring a sense of hope and inspiration in a world that can often seem dark and uncertain. They remind us that there is beauty and goodness in the world.

P.S.

Courtesy of Kevin Fraser. 62-year-old Kevin Fraser shared a photo of something that sparks his sense of awe in the world. After playing a round of golf in Colorado, he and his golfing buddies were enjoying a beer when he noticed the entire room had taken on an orange glow. He turned around and saw a beautiful sunset. This is just one example of the amazing things that can inspire us and make us appreciate the world around us.I'll continue to feature your responses in the coming weeks. - Isabel

About the Author

Isabel Fattal is a senior editor at The Atlantic, where she oversees newsletters. She has a passion for bringing together great stories and sharing them with readers.