Kiley Reid's Come and Get It is a provocative novel on the intricate dynamics of money, power, and privilege within a university setting. Set in 2017 at the University of Arkansas, the story centers on Millie Cousins, a senior resident assistant (RA) with aspirations of financial independence post-graduation. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she becomes entangled with Agatha Paul, a visiting professor and writer seeking inspiration from the lives of Millie's residents. This relationship sets off a chain of events that intertwines the lives of students and faculty, revealing the complexities of ethics.
Reid crafts a diverse cast of characters, each navigating their own challenges and desires. Millie and Agatha serve as compelling foils, Millie, pragmatic and driven by necessity while Agatha, affluent yet searching for purpose. Their interactions highlight the nuanced power imbalances shaped by age, race, and socioeconomic status. The novel's structure, alternating between multiple perspectives, offers a multifaceted view of the unfolding drama, allowing readers to engage deeply with each character's motivations.
The novel also examines the ethical boundaries of storytelling, particularly through Agatha's questionable methods of gathering material for her work, blurring the lines between observation and intrusion.
Critics have lauded Come and Get It for its incisive social commentary and engaging narrative. Vox describes it as a "witty, overstuffed campus satire," noting Reid's ability to intertwine complex themes with compelling storytelling. The Southern Review of Books praises the novel's intricate character interactions, likening it to a "Burn Book" filled with secrets and drama. Vogue includes the novel in its list of best books of 2024, highlighting Reid's exploration of class and money within the college environment. However, some readers have expressed mixed feelings. On Goodreads, the novel holds a 3.35 rating, with reviews ranging from high praise for character development to critiques about the plot's direction. Overall, Come and Get It solidifies Kiley Reid's reputation as a keen observer of contemporary social dynamics, offering a thought-provoking narrative that challenges readers to reflect on the subtle exchanges of power and privilege in everyday life.
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