Such a Fun Age is a fiction novel by Kiley Reid. This captivating novel takes place in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania where young Emira, an African American baby-sitter who works for an upper-class white family, is accused of stealing the little girl she baby sits when taking the girl to a fancy neighborhood grocery store. This is what sparks a line of events that takes Emira and her boss, Alix, on a rampage of self-discovery, innovative conversation, and the intriguing drama that insures you to turn each page. Alix, mother of Briar and boss to Emira, keeps secrets that she has buried for decades, which comes to light at the end of the book like most secrets do. First loves are brought into the mix and after you read the book, you can see the seeds that Reid planted that blossom into the thrilling story that it becomes. Such a Fun Age is not only Reid’s charming and enticing debut regarding race and class, but it also gives sentiments of love, hope, and forgiveness that is sure to melt your heart by the end of the story. This vividly enchanting novel has made me question society’s progressiveness, while still providing enough drama to keep readers entertained.
I found out about this book because I follow Reese Witherspoon’s book club, and this was her January 2020 pick. Now I know why she chose this novel! I became addicted to reading it and couldn’t stop turning one page after the other. In all honesty, I devoured this book in one night, with caffeine in one hand and the other holding the book. Such a Fun Age is easy to read and gives lively images, like you’re watching a tv show in your mind as you read. Everyone could benefit from reading Such a Fun Age and I’d recommend it for anyone who loves social justice and drama.
Just Lane 