Many people fantasize about a life unburdened by smartphones and social media, imagining they would become more productive and engaged. The author shares a personal experience of stepping away from social media to focus on writing a book, but despite reducing screen time significantly, the hoped-for benefits, like increased reading, didn't materialize. Instead, the author found himself more disconnected from current events and unable to pick up books, even as he recognized a growing societal concern over declining reading habits. Statistics highlight this decline: a National Literacy Trust survey revealed that only 20% of children aged eight to eighteen read daily for pleasure, a record low. Similarly, a 2022 poll indicated that less than half of adults read a book in the past year, down about ten percentage points from a decade ago. Yet, people read more text than ever, primarily through digital communication. The author questions whether the relationship between social media use and book reading is more complex than it appears. For instance, people might be reading less in traditional formats but consuming information in different ways, such as through specialized online communities and podcasts. The potential benefits of these online interactions are debated. The author introduces a hypothetical character, Dave, who engages with military history through Reddit rather than traditional reading. This raises the question of whether he is less literate for reading fewer books or if he is simply more selective and engaged with what he truly enjoys. Celine Nguyen's ideas suggest that while social media can lead to a narrower focus in reading choices, it can also lead to smarter reading by connecting people with books outside their usual preferences. Yet, there's concern that this could eliminate the enriching experience of in-person discussions found in traditional book clubs. The article ultimately raises questions about the value of diverse reading experiences and the social benefits that come from engaging with a variety of texts and perspectives.