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Kiley Reid

3.88 AVERAGE


The fact that the white woman was villainized (Tbf she had it coming) but the white man got a free pass? Furthermore the way Emira’s friends were written, did not sit right with me.

Title: "Such a Fun Age" by Kiley Reid - Book Review

"Such a Fun Age" by Kiley Reid is a thought-provoking novel that delves into the complex themes of race and family dynamics. This captivating story offers a fresh perspective on contemporary issues, challenging societal norms and exploring the nuances of human relationships.

The book revolves around the lives of Emira, a young African-American woman, and Alix, a white woman who employs Emira as a babysitter for her daughter. Through their interactions and experiences, Reid skillfully examines the dynamics of privilege, racial biases, and the complexities of class.

One of the book's strengths lies in its portrayal of the racial tensions that exist within society. Reid adeptly captures the subtleties of everyday racism and the microaggressions faced by Emira, highlighting the challenges she encounters while navigating her own identity in a predominantly white world. The narrative prompts readers to reflect on their own biases and consider the broader implications of racial dynamics.

Furthermore, "Such a Fun Age" explores the intricate dynamics within families, particularly through Alix's character. The novel delves into themes of motherhood, ambition, and the often-complicated relationships between mothers and their children. Through Alix's journey, Reid showcases the complexity of familial relationships and the impact of societal expectations on personal fulfillment.

The prose in "Such a Fun Age" is engaging and compelling, drawing readers into the lives of the characters and immersing them in their struggles and triumphs. Reid's ability to tackle sensitive topics with sensitivity and nuance makes for a thought-provoking and impactful read.

While the novel is powerful and insightful, some readers might find certain aspects of the plot predictable or familiar. However, this does not diminish the book's overall impact and the important conversations it sparks.

In conclusion, "Such a Fun Age" by Kiley Reid is a thought-provoking novel that explores race and family dynamics with depth and sensitivity. It offers readers a compelling narrative that challenges societal norms and encourages self-reflection. I highly recommend this book to those seeking a captivating story that addresses important contemporary issues.
emotional funny hopeful reflective tense fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

Kelly said the N word, hard r, and you guys still hate Alix more. 🙄
funny hopeful reflective tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

A fun, light read featuring a story about being black in America. Emira, a smart, black, 25 year old, with no clue about where her life should be going, takes a job as a nanny to a rich white woman, who clings to Emira's ethnicity just a little too much. Emira also acquires a white boyfriend who just loves the dark ladies as well. In some ways, this a story of manners among the educated. An entertaining, well told story that will be filmed as a comedy (I surmise).

This book is written as a light and breezy story, but it's actually very deep with issues that are very relevant. I could not STAND Alix, one of the main viewpoints. She was a bully and a brat and so condescending, but she managed to justify all of her actions. I liked Emira...I felt bad for her the whole book. She didn't know who to trust...and her story line was very eye opening to me. Great book.
challenging emotional funny hopeful reflective sad tense medium-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

Really well written book of a young college educated black woman Emira, who baby sits for a white family in Philadelphia. After being accused of kidnapping her charge while at an upscale grocery, which is filmed by another customer, Emira suddenly finds herself the center of everyone's attention. Everyone, her white employer, her new white boyfriend, her employer's friends and even her friends have opinions as to what she should do about the video, when Emira just wants to ignore it and chalk it up as an unfortunate though not surprising event. The employer and boyfriend turn out to have gone to high school together and each maligns the other's intentions to Emira. They are incredibly condescending in telling her how to respond and what her life should be. I thought the ending was appropriate. I hated how Alix's friend had been so bossy because Emira didn't know exactly what she wanted to do with her life yet.

It is a sign of great writing when I have to put the book down and walk away because I'm mad at a character or think "that f*#@ing b*%$h, no she didn't!".

Reid's storytelling skills are amazing. The exploration of race, class, "being a grown up", and relationships is done with clarity and compassion.
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