Book Review: Such a Fun Age by Kiley Reid
I first stumbled upon Such a Fun Age while scrolling through my feed, enticed by its glowing endorsements and the buzz that surrounded Kiley Reid’s debut novel. What really drew me in, though, was the promise of a narrative that delves into the complexities of race and privilege—two topics that feel ever-relevant in our current climate. And let me tell you, Reid’s exploration of these themes through a personal lens made for an unforgettable reading experience.
Set against the backdrop of a seemingly innocuous incident in a high-end grocery store, the story follows Emira Tucker, a young Black woman working as a babysitter for Alix Chamberlain, a white woman who is all about empowering other women. However, when Emira is wrongly accused of kidnapping the toddler she cares for, the encounter not only exposes societal tensions but also sets into motion a series of events that challenge both women’s perceptions of themselves and each other.
What I found particularly fascinating was the complexity of Emira’s character. She is navigating a transitional phase of adulthood, grappling with the uncertainty of her future and financial instability. Reid paints her predicament with a sense of empathy and realism that allows the reader to fully understand her struggles. Alix, on the other hand, represents a unique brand of privilege that is wrapped up in performative allyship. Her initial intentions to "help" Emira become murky as the narrative unfolds, revealing how well-meaning actions can sometimes perpetuate the very systems they aim to dismantle.
Reid’s writing style is sharp yet approachable, loaded with humor that adds levity to otherwise heavy subjects. The pacing is brisk, making it difficult to put the book down. Whether it’s a witty observation or a heartbreaking moment of introspection, each page captures the nuanced dance of human relationships. One quote that really resonated with me was when Reid writes about the superficiality of ‘support’—“it wasn’t empathy if it didn’t create discomfort.” It’s a reminder that true understanding requires moving beyond the surface.
The narrative thrusts both women into a collision course of self-discovery and moral questioning, and you can’t help but feel invested in how it all unfolds. It poses challenging questions about the nature of friendship, the “us versus them” mentality that often comes with being part of different racial and economic backgrounds, and the complexities of building genuine relationships in a world steeped in social stratification.
Such a Fun Age is much more than just a story about its characters; it’s a mirror reflecting the societal constructs we navigate daily. I believe this book will resonate with anyone looking to engage in a thoughtful conversation about race, privilege, and the intricate nature of human connection. If you enjoy character-driven narratives that prompt reflection and dialogue, then Kiley Reid’s powerful debut is definitely for you.
As for me, this book left a lingering impression about the importance of conscious awareness and humility in our interactions with others. It’s a compelling reminder that understanding often requires more than just good intentions—it calls for genuine engagement and self-examination.