When Books Become the Prescription: How Reading Can Rescue Modern Manhood

It’s no secret that many young men today are facing crises of identity, purpose, and mental well-being. According to recent data, they are four times more likely to die by suicide, three times more likely to struggle with addiction, and twelve times more likely to face incarceration compared to women. Also, 58% of young men have shown little or no purpose in their lives in the past months. 

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Brooks argues — as shared with Bari Weiss in her article “Can Reading Fix Men?” — that books are not just entertainment. They are vessels of self‑examination and spiritual growth:

In other words, when men feel broken or directionless, the right book may serve as a kind of pharmacy. Brooks launched a podcast called “Old School” (in partnership with The Free Press) where guests like Fareed Zakaria, Nick Cave, and Coleman Hughes discuss the books that shaped their lives and thinking.

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Of course, reading alone won’t solve every problem. But as Brooks suggests, it’s a powerful complement: a way to foster deeper thinking, expand purpose, and rebuild connection with ourselves. In a world where purpose is vanishing, reading may be one of the few anchors left.

Call to Action:

Pick up one novel this week — and commit to reading just 20 minutes a day. See what emerges. Then let’s talk about it: what changed, what stirred, what challenged you.