"What a sense of superiority it gives one to escape reading some book which everyone else is reading"

In this quote, Alice James is expressing her contempt for the concept of complying with societal standards and expectations. She suggests that there is a particular fulfillment in intentionally choosing not to read a popular book that everyone else reads. This act of defiance offers one a sense of superiority, as if they are above the masses who are blindly following the pattern. James is highlighting the significance of uniqueness and critical thinking, rather than blindly following the crowd. She motivates readers to break away from the pressure to conform and instead, make their own options based on individual preferences and interests.