I was not taught to read that way, but I was also a very early reader so it may not be a fair comparison! I would say that it’s *not* something I have regularly observed in peers my same age (mid 30s), but is prevalent in the (highly-educated, high-achieving) 20-26yos at my university.

They seem flummoxed when I read and retain long new words with ease, and can pronounce them; they do not seem to believe they could do the same, even when I prompt them to deliberately sound it out. Instead, they have to memorize it whole.

It’s frightening to me! It is difficult to imagine not being confidently able to read. Quickly and well. That’s scary!

Right now when I’m there, we mostly just hang out. Groom her, give her scratches and massages, etc. Go graze the remaining nice grass until the frosts kill it. Do some stretches and tricks.

For most of my political life, Republicans have refused to treat me and the people I love as fellow citizens, while coyly (and increasingly openly!) fantasizing about hurting or killing us. I've seen liberals exhibit a frankly astonishing degree of patience with this. That patience is running out.