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The context of this story is undoubtedly important - shedding light on some of the injustices people of colour still face today helps readers recognize a systemic problem that needs fixing. The writing style, however, was not my cup of tea. It took a while to finish it, as I found myself rereading paragraphs due to subconsciously zoning out.
challenging
emotional
sad
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
reflective
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
No
hopeful
reflective
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
funny
lighthearted
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Minor: Racial slurs, Racism
3.5⭐️ - When I met Kiley in October, I had no inkling that this book would go onto become and IndieNext #1. But after diving into this lovely story, it's clear why. Such a Fun Age is a riot of a book. It's funny, sweet, light, and breezy, but also hits the ground running when it comes to examining the racial biases at play in our society.
I especially loved Briar. Intelligent, excitable, and sometimes awkward in her quest for the answers, her innocence played the perfect counterpart to the grown-ups in her life. Those characters are where this story started to break down for me. I couldn't stand Alix from the off; her supposed redemption arc was entirely unbelievable. Kelley was no better. And Emira? For as much as I felt (and wanted so much better) for her, she often came across entitled, expecting someone else to solve her problems for her, and passive-aggressive when she was forced to do it herself.
On the whole, Such a Fun Age is an incredibly approachable story for those who often avoid the topic of racial inequality. But... I'm not sure those who need its message most will be able to see beyond the surface.
I especially loved Briar. Intelligent, excitable, and sometimes awkward in her quest for the answers, her innocence played the perfect counterpart to the grown-ups in her life. Those characters are where this story started to break down for me. I couldn't stand Alix from the off; her supposed redemption arc was entirely unbelievable. Kelley was no better. And Emira? For as much as I felt (and wanted so much better) for her, she often came across entitled, expecting someone else to solve her problems for her, and passive-aggressive when she was forced to do it herself.
On the whole, Such a Fun Age is an incredibly approachable story for those who often avoid the topic of racial inequality. But... I'm not sure those who need its message most will be able to see beyond the surface.
Made it through about 50% but not invested in characters…I lost desire to care what happened. Too much manipulation. Maybe I have too many other books I’m excited to read. Could try again one day
challenging
emotional
reflective
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Graphic: Racial slurs, Racism, Police brutality
Moderate: Fatphobia, Toxic relationship, Alcohol
Minor: Animal death, Sexual content, Vomit
funny
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
emotional
funny
tense
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes