In this phenomenal collection of essays, Elaine Castillo explores the politics of reading. By discussing if literature can truly build empathy, the validity of nonpolitical art, the burden BIPOC authors are forced to carry to cater to white readers, and the colonial gaze that continues to permeate modern publishing, How to Read Now encourages readers to examine the media we consume. With brilliant, sarcastic, and sometimes even profane writing, Castillo poignantly lays out examples of how we can read with intention by examining the historical complexities behind the art.

I should start by saying that Castillo is not afraid to name names. From Peter Handke to Joan Didion, she thoroughly analyzes their work to dissect the problematic language (and I'm using a way nicer word here compared to what was in the book) behind their work. I especially appreciate how Castillo still encourages us to read broadly and, instead of cancelling authors, read deeply to scrutinize the concepts behind their work. Never have I taken so many pictures of texts & paragraphs that I now have an album called How to Read Now on my phone. This should tell you how much this book has inspired me to read more deeply, intently, and with more intention.

On a lighter note, Castillo references horoscopes frequently throughout her essays, and the book even starts with "Author's note, or a Virgo Clarifies Things". How awesome is that? How to Read Now is definitely a book I'd recommend to any reader (even if you're a huge Joan Didion fan; just be prepared to get your heart ripped out