The Age of Magical Overthinking

Bookseller recommendation

“Amanda Montell has a great way of burrowing into topics in unexpected ways, in a fashion that is akin to documentary maker David Farrier. This book examines a range of cognitive biases - such as the halo effect, sunk cost fallacy, confirmation bias, and more - and the various effects they have on our culture and society. It blends this research with personal anecdotes, grounding the data in lived experiences. Amanda narrates the audiobook herself, and she's an experienced podcaster so she's a pro at it.”

— Rachel • The Open Book

Bookseller recommendation

“A book for the millennials/zillennials in your life. A look at the contradictions in our modern, tech-driven, way-too-interconnected times.”

— Allison • Page 1 Books

Bookseller recommendation

“I really enjoyed this collection of ponderings on current events and current thought processes. Amanda Montell has her finger on the pulse of society today! I listened to the author read this on Libro.fm! It felt like having a great conversation with a friend. ”

— Melanie • The Well-Read Moose

Bookseller recommendation

“Exploring our current culture of overthinking and the language surrounding it, these essays are fascinating and enlightening. Peppered with anecdotes and self-evaluation, this is the book Montell was meant to write.”

— Mallory Melton • BookPeople

Bookseller recommendation

“Imagine if your best friend could channel Mary Roach to explain psycho-social phenomena, and you’d have Amanda Montell. Her explanations of cognitive biases are clear and relatable, and make this book not just a fascinating read, but a compass for our turbulent times.”

— Jennifer • Tattered Cover

Bookseller recommendation

“Part pop psychology, part memoir, the book examines modern cultural phenomena (standom, the proliferation of unlicensed mental health “gurus” on instagram) as well as Montell’s own life’s path by making reams of scientific studies accessible and relatable. I most enjoyed the chapters where she puts herself under the lens. I think this could be as a really useful gift to a new HS graduate as they make their way out in the world. Especially someone who took AP Psych!”

— Matthew • The Common Good

Bookseller recommendation

“It's possible that Amanda Montell is the only sane and rational human being writing right now. Her voice is a balm for the ever-present existential burn of the present day, a cursed time filled with instant backlash feedback loops, bad-faith takes, constant content consumption and deep, deep loneliness. Montell's essays are insightful yet accessible, with no overtly academic language or convoluted explanations. Her personal anecdotes are hilarious and endearing. Never have I consumed a non-fiction book with such feverish glee.”

— Ryan • Quail Ridge Books