Reading Assata in its hard copy form has been a game-changer for me. I often found it difficult to read on my phone, especially in distracting environments like class or lunch breaks. Having a physical book allows me to disconnect from screen fatigue and immerse myself fully in the powerful narrative without interruptions. Finding the book at a Juneteenth event made it even more special — it felt like supporting community culture and heritage by purchasing from Griot Arts, a Melanated-Owned bookstore. It's important to me to support local Black-owned businesses that promote culturally significant works, and this experience confirmed how meaningful that can be. The tactile nature of a hard copy also helps with retention and emotional connection; turning each page feels more deliberate than scrolling on a device. Plus, I can easily highlight, annotate, or share passages with friends and fellow readers, which is harder to do on an app. If you've been struggling to engage with digital reading, I highly recommend seeking out physical copies of impactful books like Assata. Look for local events or bookstores that celebrate diverse voices — the experience is enriching both culturally and personally. This approach doesn’t just enhance your reading but also strengthens community bonds and promotes ownership of powerful stories. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best way to truly connect with a book is to hold it in your hands.