Reviews with content warning for Emotional abuse - Such a Fun Age

I agree with other reviewers that the ending was underwhelming (all the discussions the book opened were abruptly sealed), but up until the last 10 or so pages, I was extremely impressed by the complex character dynamics. I loved this.

Content Warnings

bmyurs's review against another edition

Go to review page

challenging emotional sad tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.5

Content Warnings

katbamkapow's review against another edition

Go to review page

emotional funny reflective medium-paced

Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

Such A Fun Age is a great book; I was surprised to learn that it was a debut novel. I thought that it would be a book about what happens to someone after a video of them being mistreated is publicly released. It turned out to be a nuanced look at the relationship between two women when a series of significant power dynamics are in play: boss/employee, high/low socioeconomic status, white/black. The novel spans the time between the video's recording and its release, and it's a remarkable display of interpersonal tension.

For all its complexity and nuance, the characters remain likeable and lighthearted enough (even when they are explicitly awful, Reid manages to write them with such grace and humour). They hit all the right marks, from endearing to infuriating. I was disappointed that a significant amount of the novel's attention was drawn to Alix's history and personal narrative; I wish that more of that attention had been given to Emira's. Because of this, it almost comes across as too-apologetic. Our final twist of the knife doesn't come until the epilogue! Its discussion of race toes the line between "believable and realistic" to "too palatable." I don't know how I feel about that one, and I'm not sure I'm necessarily qualified to say!

Content Warnings

queenfury's review against another edition

Go to review page

challenging emotional reflective fast-paced

Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

The middle third meanders a bit, but for the most part this book is strong. I love Emira and her relationship with Briar. Her mid-twenties "all of my friends are leaving me behind in terms of their accomplishments versus mine" anxieties were very well done and relatable.

Content Warnings

More...