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The Education of Kia Greer
How can you trust your heart in a world that’s plastic? The story of a teen girl who longs to escape the spotlight, and the PR relationship that helps her find real happiness.
"Smart, fearless, romantic, and so very alive." — Casey McQuiston, New York Times bestselling author of Red, White and Royal Blue
Growing up in the public eye, Kia would gladly give up her privileged life as the daughter of a reality star for the freedom to find her own way—go to high school parties, gossip with the drama club, apply to college, make mistakes, and fall in love like any other teen.
Then she meets Cass, and he offers a glimpse at the ordinary life she craves. But Cass is a rising star in his own right, and what starts as something sweet and undefined soon becomes a magnet for rumor and speculation—as if first love wasn’t messy enough on its own.
The pressure of the spotlight takes its toll, chipping away at Kia’s sense of self, pushing and pulling and reshaping her—body and mind—to fit the expectations of everyone around her. But what does Kia want for herself? And can her fragile new relationship survive the fallout?
"Smart, fearless, romantic, and so very alive." — Casey McQuiston, New York Times bestselling author of Red, White and Royal Blue
Growing up in the public eye, Kia would gladly give up her privileged life as the daughter of a reality star for the freedom to find her own way—go to high school parties, gossip with the drama club, apply to college, make mistakes, and fall in love like any other teen.
Then she meets Cass, and he offers a glimpse at the ordinary life she craves. But Cass is a rising star in his own right, and what starts as something sweet and undefined soon becomes a magnet for rumor and speculation—as if first love wasn’t messy enough on its own.
The pressure of the spotlight takes its toll, chipping away at Kia’s sense of self, pushing and pulling and reshaping her—body and mind—to fit the expectations of everyone around her. But what does Kia want for herself? And can her fragile new relationship survive the fallout?
416 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 13, 2025
34 people are currently reading
6676 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
May 14, 2025
The gorgeous cover pulled me in, but the synopsis sounds just as fantastic. A huge thank you to Get Underlined and Libro.fm for the gifted copies.
March 17, 2025
I would definitely be one of those people judging Kia Greer. I dislike reality TV and the culture that surrounds it. Back in the days when I used Twitter I blocked any posts mentioning the Kardashians. And yet, Alanna Bennett has made me care about these characters. I found myself invested in the story of Kia and her sisters and drawn into their world as I hungrily turned the pages to find out what would happen next. Half the time I forgot I was reading the book and found myself thinking of the characters like I was really watching a TV series.
I found Kia heartbreakingly relatable at times despite her circumstances. She is such an endearing character. Her story really makes you think about fame, our relationship to it, and through it how we see ourselves.
I've been a big fan of Bennett's writing since her Buzzfeed days. I loved how she showed off her journalist side with the articles sprinkled throughout the book (those were honestly some of my favorite parts). I also loved the little Easter Eggs/name drops of friends and fellow Buzzfeed and pop culture writers. Some of the of the references I fear you may have to be a little too chronically online for, but luckily I am so I enjoyed it all.
This book is sweet and sad and hopeful and a YA book that really feels YA in all the best ways.
*Thanks to NetGalley & Random House Children's for the arc of this book.*
I found Kia heartbreakingly relatable at times despite her circumstances. She is such an endearing character. Her story really makes you think about fame, our relationship to it, and through it how we see ourselves.
I've been a big fan of Bennett's writing since her Buzzfeed days. I loved how she showed off her journalist side with the articles sprinkled throughout the book (those were honestly some of my favorite parts). I also loved the little Easter Eggs/name drops of friends and fellow Buzzfeed and pop culture writers. Some of the of the references I fear you may have to be a little too chronically online for, but luckily I am so I enjoyed it all.
This book is sweet and sad and hopeful and a YA book that really feels YA in all the best ways.
*Thanks to NetGalley & Random House Children's for the arc of this book.*
May 6, 2025
I loved everything about this book 🥲👏🏽 Alanna Bennett really did her big one! And maybe it’s just me, but these YA books have been hitting different this year 😅
The Education of Kia Greer follows Kia, a member of the infamous reality TV superstar Greer family. Think the Kardashians, but with a twist. Her mom is a full-blown momager who will do anything to keep all 4 of her daughters famous. But unlike her sisters, Kia doesn’t really enjoy any of it. After years of living in the spotlight and being constantly harassed by paparazzi, Kia is drowning in depression and completely over it all. That is, until she meets Cass 🥰 the only person who sees Kia for exactly who she is and who she wants to be. The 2 quickly became a pair, and their growing relationship feels like the only bright spot in Kia’s chaotic world. But naturally things don’t stay simple, and their lives get messier than either of them could’ve expected.
This was such a beautiful coming-of-age story. I loved watching Kia grow into herself, learn who she really is, and fall in love for the first time with someone as gentle and supportive as Cass 💕 Their relationship was so solid, loving, and full of healthy communication styles. And I really liked Kia’s bond with her sisters too 🥲🫶🏽 it was so chaotic but real. And their dialogue was actually pretty funny at times ngl 😅 I also appreciated how this book tackled body image, beauty standards, and the lasting damage of being raised in a hyper-pressured, fame-obsessed environment. Kia and her sisters were put through a lot, from simple cosmetic procedures and crash diets to full blown bbl’s and constant surveillance, all for the sake of staying famous. And their parents were dead wrong for the huge role they played in that smh. But even through all of it, Kia eventually finds a way to choose herself 🥲👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽
The Education of Kia Greer follows Kia, a member of the infamous reality TV superstar Greer family. Think the Kardashians, but with a twist. Her mom is a full-blown momager who will do anything to keep all 4 of her daughters famous. But unlike her sisters, Kia doesn’t really enjoy any of it. After years of living in the spotlight and being constantly harassed by paparazzi, Kia is drowning in depression and completely over it all. That is, until she meets Cass 🥰 the only person who sees Kia for exactly who she is and who she wants to be. The 2 quickly became a pair, and their growing relationship feels like the only bright spot in Kia’s chaotic world. But naturally things don’t stay simple, and their lives get messier than either of them could’ve expected.
This was such a beautiful coming-of-age story. I loved watching Kia grow into herself, learn who she really is, and fall in love for the first time with someone as gentle and supportive as Cass 💕 Their relationship was so solid, loving, and full of healthy communication styles. And I really liked Kia’s bond with her sisters too 🥲🫶🏽 it was so chaotic but real. And their dialogue was actually pretty funny at times ngl 😅 I also appreciated how this book tackled body image, beauty standards, and the lasting damage of being raised in a hyper-pressured, fame-obsessed environment. Kia and her sisters were put through a lot, from simple cosmetic procedures and crash diets to full blown bbl’s and constant surveillance, all for the sake of staying famous. And their parents were dead wrong for the huge role they played in that smh. But even through all of it, Kia eventually finds a way to choose herself 🥲👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽
March 31, 2025
I'm familiar Alanna Bennett from her work with XO, Kitty (which I love by the way), so I had some expectations going into this book. Bennett did a really good job decorating Kia and Cass. The characters, especially Kia, were so relatable and reminiscent of those teenager (young adult) years who trying to figure out the person you are versus the person others expect you to be. I think most people can relate to figuring out how to embrace that reality if you're brave enough to do so--some don't feel capable of doing so. This story was thoughtful and emotional.
Thank you to Netgalley and Penguin Random House for a ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to Netgalley and Penguin Random House for a ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 15, 2025
YA has been 🔥 this year.
Yet again plugging Casey McQuistons blurb which, besides the stunner of the cover, was the first thing to catch my eye…
“A must-read for pop heads, reality bingers, blind item guessers, and anyone who’s ever owned a Kylie Lip Kit.”
Perfection.
Kia just wants to be a normal teen… she’s over the cameras on her for filming, paparazzi catching her every move and the pressure to look a certain way and fit the standards for everyone else but herself. By chance or maybe not… she meets Cass, a rising star… who Kia feels instantly connected to. But being in the limelight isn’t all what’s it’s cracked up to be and it starts to take a toll on just about everything for Kia.
A debut that GOES there… with realistic situations and everyday struggles many teens find themselves going through. Kia was such a bold, memorable character. Many will see themselves in Kia, famous or not and I think that’s where this book shines. The bonds with her sisters felt so authentic and true to sisterly bonds. This coming of age will be important for many reasons but one that stuck out was the discussions centered around body image and beauty standards. A coming of age that IMO is not to be missed.
*Also I would love a book on each of the sisters
Thank you Get Underlined, Knopf Books for Young Readers
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Lyon.brit.A...
Yet again plugging Casey McQuistons blurb which, besides the stunner of the cover, was the first thing to catch my eye…
“A must-read for pop heads, reality bingers, blind item guessers, and anyone who’s ever owned a Kylie Lip Kit.”
Perfection.
Kia just wants to be a normal teen… she’s over the cameras on her for filming, paparazzi catching her every move and the pressure to look a certain way and fit the standards for everyone else but herself. By chance or maybe not… she meets Cass, a rising star… who Kia feels instantly connected to. But being in the limelight isn’t all what’s it’s cracked up to be and it starts to take a toll on just about everything for Kia.
A debut that GOES there… with realistic situations and everyday struggles many teens find themselves going through. Kia was such a bold, memorable character. Many will see themselves in Kia, famous or not and I think that’s where this book shines. The bonds with her sisters felt so authentic and true to sisterly bonds. This coming of age will be important for many reasons but one that stuck out was the discussions centered around body image and beauty standards. A coming of age that IMO is not to be missed.
*Also I would love a book on each of the sisters
Thank you Get Underlined, Knopf Books for Young Readers
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Lyon.brit.A...
April 9, 2025
I had a chance to read The Education of Kia Greer early and I adored it. We have been living in a time filled with reality tv and reality stars, so having a character like Kia, someone itching to break out of that, felt really refreshing to me. Bennett’s experience as a culture writer and entertainment journalist really seemed shine in this book. As someone who doesn’t consume a lot of reality tv, save for the occasional early season Big Brother rewatch, this world felt so textured and grounded while also introducing me to parts of that lifestyle I’ve never even considered.
The middle of the book really got me, though. The pacing, the framing, and the stakes all picked up in a way that made me slow down and savor every word because I wanted to speed read to learn what happened next. I also say Bennett’s framing device using Kia’s writing (won’t say more than that for fear of spoiling) is so unique and it really sets the stage for the book.
Honestly, I fell in love with these characters and this world and if you liked the synopsis I think you will too.
The middle of the book really got me, though. The pacing, the framing, and the stakes all picked up in a way that made me slow down and savor every word because I wanted to speed read to learn what happened next. I also say Bennett’s framing device using Kia’s writing (won’t say more than that for fear of spoiling) is so unique and it really sets the stage for the book.
Honestly, I fell in love with these characters and this world and if you liked the synopsis I think you will too.
August 16, 2025
I liked this one! If you’re a fan of reality tv like myself then this story might work for you. I really enjoyed Kia’s character and watching her navigate life in Hollywood, her body image struggles and falling in love for the first time. There are definitely some unlikeable characters which helps explains the challenges Kia is facing. Her relationship with Cass was super cute and felt just right for a young adult book. I also appreciated that the story touched on heavier themes like race, gender and sexuality. It did feel a little long toward the end, but overall I enjoyed it.
June 8, 2025
The Education of Kia Greer by Alanna Bennett
Whew. This one hit different. The Education of Kia Greer is raw, messy, romantic, and so real it practically buzzes off the page. Alanna Bennett didn’t just give us another love story—she gave us a story about identity, about growing up with too many eyes watching and still trying to figure out who the hell you are.
Kia is a hot mess in the most relatable way—privileged, yes, but also suffocating under it. A nepo baby with a reality star mom and way too much public pressure? Been there (emotionally). Watching her chase the ordinary—parties, first love, mistakes, freedom—felt like watching someone finally come up for air.
And then there’s Cass. Their connection is sweet and chaotic and complicated, and I loved every second of it. But this book doesn’t sugarcoat a damn thing. Fame is intrusive. Love under a microscope? Even worse. Kia’s story dives headfirst into all of it—body image, anxiety, longing, and that ache to just be seen for who you really are. Not a headline. Not a brand. Just… you.
This book is a vibe for anyone who’s ever wanted to break free from expectations and just feel something real. Kia’s journey? Unforgettable.
Whew. This one hit different. The Education of Kia Greer is raw, messy, romantic, and so real it practically buzzes off the page. Alanna Bennett didn’t just give us another love story—she gave us a story about identity, about growing up with too many eyes watching and still trying to figure out who the hell you are.
Kia is a hot mess in the most relatable way—privileged, yes, but also suffocating under it. A nepo baby with a reality star mom and way too much public pressure? Been there (emotionally). Watching her chase the ordinary—parties, first love, mistakes, freedom—felt like watching someone finally come up for air.
And then there’s Cass. Their connection is sweet and chaotic and complicated, and I loved every second of it. But this book doesn’t sugarcoat a damn thing. Fame is intrusive. Love under a microscope? Even worse. Kia’s story dives headfirst into all of it—body image, anxiety, longing, and that ache to just be seen for who you really are. Not a headline. Not a brand. Just… you.
This book is a vibe for anyone who’s ever wanted to break free from expectations and just feel something real. Kia’s journey? Unforgettable.
May 11, 2025
Sometimes, life is the greatest teacher-and Kia definitely learned the hard way. This modern-day young adult story follows an ultra-famous family of four sisters who star in a reality show while also pursuing their own individual ventures. Kia, the second youngest, seems to have it all as she approaches her 18th birthday— until a series of events shakes up her world and pushes her to reevaluate everything. She decides she wants out of the fame game and begins making choices for herself.
I really admire adult authors who can write teenagers with such authenticity that it feels like a teen penned the story. Kia was portrayed with incredible depth and realism-her voice, emotions, and internal struggles felt genuine.
I especially loved the sisterly bond she shared with both her younger and older sisters; their dynamic was heartfelt and believable. The portrayal of the parents, while out of touch, added an intriguing layer and felt reminiscent of real-life reality TV families.
The only drawback for me was that some of the subplots outside of Kia's story were left unresolved, which made parts of the ending feel like a cliffhanger. Still, overall, this is a well-written and engaging young adult novel that captures the complexity of fame, family, and finding your own path.
I really admire adult authors who can write teenagers with such authenticity that it feels like a teen penned the story. Kia was portrayed with incredible depth and realism-her voice, emotions, and internal struggles felt genuine.
I especially loved the sisterly bond she shared with both her younger and older sisters; their dynamic was heartfelt and believable. The portrayal of the parents, while out of touch, added an intriguing layer and felt reminiscent of real-life reality TV families.
The only drawback for me was that some of the subplots outside of Kia's story were left unresolved, which made parts of the ending feel like a cliffhanger. Still, overall, this is a well-written and engaging young adult novel that captures the complexity of fame, family, and finding your own path.
March 25, 2025
The author’s skills as a screenwriter really shine through here. This read like a movie and fully enthralled me in the story. There was so much drama, tension and character growth. I laughed and I cried multiple times. I love a YA book that makes me feel seen as an adult remembering my late teens and early twenties and all the hard stuff that came with it - Bennett does such a beautiful job describing those universal or unique experiences with authenticity and emotion. I loved so much of the messaging of this book, the societal commentary, and the beautiful friendships and sisterhoods.
Thanks to PRH for the ARC.
Thanks to PRH for the ARC.
May 13, 2025
reality tv keeping up with the kardashians type of coming of age novel.
Longer than be necessary (and feels kind of choppy with all the parts crammed together) and a bit predictable on the ending but nonetheless a fun read.
Thank you Knopf for the ARC
Longer than be necessary (and feels kind of choppy with all the parts crammed together) and a bit predictable on the ending but nonetheless a fun read.
Thank you Knopf for the ARC
May 31, 2025
The Greer family is basically the Kardashians, made famous by a TV show that follows their life. Their dad is in movies, the mom is called the momager, all the sisters have their thing, makeup, fitness, one is an upcoming pop star, and then there’s Kia, who just wants to go to college.
She starts to date Cass, a popular singer, and while their dating starts out as a PR relationship, they eventually fall for each other and it’s all cute.
Kia and Cass go through various things together in dealing with the media, Cass comes out as Bi, Kia’s mom pressures her into lots of diets, and makes her get a lot of face fillers. Kia and Cass start hooking up, then the nausea hits her one evening and I’m like nooooo 🫠 because why did we need to do this in this YA novel.
And like, I did feel like it was handled well, she’s not hiding it or running away with a secret baby. They decide they don’t want the baby, and because they have the money and access, they can take care of it. This novel is pro-choice, we LOVE to see it, but the whole time it’s happening I’m like, did we NEED the pregnancy at all?!
Like there’s SO much else going on. Like
the mom is clearly the villain. Kia tells her mom she has depression (not tied to pregnancy) and immediately her mom wants to send her to rehab. There’s enough here to where the pregnancy felt unnecessary. As quickly as it came, it was taken care of and we were on to the next thing.
Overall, this was a good book, but I personally could have done without the accidental teen pregnancy. I know this is a thing for other readers as well so I’m letting you know it’s there.
The cover of this novel is beautiful, premise was interesting, and I was rooting for Kia the whole time.
Thank you @netgalley and @knopfyoungreaders for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
She starts to date Cass, a popular singer, and while their dating starts out as a PR relationship, they eventually fall for each other and it’s all cute.
Kia and Cass go through various things together in dealing with the media, Cass comes out as Bi, Kia’s mom pressures her into lots of diets, and makes her get a lot of face fillers. Kia and Cass start hooking up, then the nausea hits her one evening and I’m like nooooo 🫠 because why did we need to do this in this YA novel.
And like, I did feel like it was handled well, she’s not hiding it or running away with a secret baby. They decide they don’t want the baby, and because they have the money and access, they can take care of it. This novel is pro-choice, we LOVE to see it, but the whole time it’s happening I’m like, did we NEED the pregnancy at all?!
Like there’s SO much else going on. Like
the mom is clearly the villain. Kia tells her mom she has depression (not tied to pregnancy) and immediately her mom wants to send her to rehab. There’s enough here to where the pregnancy felt unnecessary. As quickly as it came, it was taken care of and we were on to the next thing.
Overall, this was a good book, but I personally could have done without the accidental teen pregnancy. I know this is a thing for other readers as well so I’m letting you know it’s there.
The cover of this novel is beautiful, premise was interesting, and I was rooting for Kia the whole time.
Thank you @netgalley and @knopfyoungreaders for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
May 26, 2025
4.5 this book gives me forever (the new netflix series) vibes. i really liked this
August 9, 2025
Absolutely loved this coming-of-age story!
June 11, 2025
I am certainly not the target audience for this book - it’s been awhile since I’ve read YA.
I admire the topics the book covers, but it ultimately ends up feeling quite long and like it’s trying to accomplish a bit too much. I think a younger me would have also felt frustrated at the pace here - it plodded at times.
My biggest pet peeve in all of literature lately is thin villains and these villains are extremely one dimensional in my opinion. The conflict also feels somewhat unrealistic.
I admire the topics the book covers, but it ultimately ends up feeling quite long and like it’s trying to accomplish a bit too much. I think a younger me would have also felt frustrated at the pace here - it plodded at times.
My biggest pet peeve in all of literature lately is thin villains and these villains are extremely one dimensional in my opinion. The conflict also feels somewhat unrealistic.
August 10, 2025
What an incredibly charming story. I had a great time with this, and while it wasn't entirely a summer book, it did give me the young adult summer vibes I was looking for. Kia is a delight to spend time with, a teenage protagonist who reads believably young but is also endearing and funny and relatable. I read a ton of thrillers about influencers, but a reality TV star protagonist is a new one for me, and as someone who loves reality dating shows but tends to avoid shows like Growin' Up Greer, it was interesting to read the conversations Kia has with Jade and Cass and to get a peek behind the curtain. I wanted good things for everyone here except the parents. Someone needs to come get them and either make them be better or make them leave their kids alone. This group of sisters does a better job of parenting themselves and each other.
I like that things aren't all neatly resolved at the end. There are still hard conversations to have and struggles to overcome, but there's so much heart and hope here too, and so many good examples of people learning to communicate and loving and supporting each other. I need a companion novel about Lark because I'm worried about her and I want to see her find a way to be okay.
The romance wasn't my favorite, but it was sweet and I appreciated that Cass and Kia were there for each other through all the ups and downs. I was dreading the moment when there was a misunderstanding that pulled them apart, or when one of them pushed the other away for their own good, because it happens in almost all romances and is so tedious. And while there was an element of that toward the end, it wasn't done the way I usually see it done. It felt like a natural and necessary part of Kia's growth, and it didn't completely tear them apart and honestly, there are grown adults I know who don't handle their relationships this maturely.
I recommend this if you want a heartwarming coming of age experience with some pathos and kind of harrowing body image discussions, or if you want to read about black joy, or if you want a nuanced look into what it might be like to be forced into a reality TV life you didn't ask for, or if you like chosen family that's also a little bit bioological family. There's a lot to enjoy.
I like that things aren't all neatly resolved at the end. There are still hard conversations to have and struggles to overcome, but there's so much heart and hope here too, and so many good examples of people learning to communicate and loving and supporting each other. I need a companion novel about Lark because I'm worried about her and I want to see her find a way to be okay.
The romance wasn't my favorite, but it was sweet and I appreciated that Cass and Kia were there for each other through all the ups and downs. I was dreading the moment when there was a misunderstanding that pulled them apart, or when one of them pushed the other away for their own good, because it happens in almost all romances and is so tedious. And while there was an element of that toward the end, it wasn't done the way I usually see it done. It felt like a natural and necessary part of Kia's growth, and it didn't completely tear them apart and honestly, there are grown adults I know who don't handle their relationships this maturely.
I recommend this if you want a heartwarming coming of age experience with some pathos and kind of harrowing body image discussions, or if you want to read about black joy, or if you want a nuanced look into what it might be like to be forced into a reality TV life you didn't ask for, or if you like chosen family that's also a little bit bioological family. There's a lot to enjoy.
October 6, 2025
Kia Greer (half-white, half-Black) has lived so much of her life in the spotlight because her family stars in the popular reality show, Growin’ Up Greer (now in its 12th season). With the spotlight comes fame, fortune, designers at her beck and call, paparazzi, and lots and lots of eyes on her every move. But who is Kia Greer really? And what does she actually want out of her life?
This story is Kia’s journey of figuring out who she wants to be instead of what others want her to be. Right from the start of the book, Bennett shows us a Kia capable of being wild and free before thrusting us back to the present day, where we see her struggling at a photoshoot to be everything that people expect of her. Kia has to work harder to be “enough” in the eyes of the public because she looks more like her father than her white-passing sister and white mother. While a lot of Kia’s body image issues deal with things like weight and plastic surgery, the idea that Black women’s bodies are criticized more than white women’s comes up periodically throughout the novel and is very important to Kia’s experience of figuring out who she wants to be.
Even though Kia’s a celebrity, readers will connect with her on so many levels - her anxiety over the future and not knowing what she wants to do with it, her inability to be herself because she doesn’t know who that is, her desire to please everyone (particularly her mother) at the cost of losing pieces of herself, her life living as the “black sheep” of the family - the quiet one amongst very loud and bold people.
Initially, I didn’t trust Cass (Black) when they first met. (For context, Cass is an up-and-coming music popstar who is very attractive and wears flashy, colorful outfits. He comes from a normal family who is not pleased with his fame and doesn’t know how to deal with it.) However, Cass becomes Kia’s rock, and his presence in her story pushes her to make more decisions for herself. The romance between Cass and Kia is very sweet and very positive. Both of them support one another in some really beautiful moments throughout the course of the novel. Link to complete review: https://ysbookreviews.wordpress.com/2...
This story is Kia’s journey of figuring out who she wants to be instead of what others want her to be. Right from the start of the book, Bennett shows us a Kia capable of being wild and free before thrusting us back to the present day, where we see her struggling at a photoshoot to be everything that people expect of her. Kia has to work harder to be “enough” in the eyes of the public because she looks more like her father than her white-passing sister and white mother. While a lot of Kia’s body image issues deal with things like weight and plastic surgery, the idea that Black women’s bodies are criticized more than white women’s comes up periodically throughout the novel and is very important to Kia’s experience of figuring out who she wants to be.
Even though Kia’s a celebrity, readers will connect with her on so many levels - her anxiety over the future and not knowing what she wants to do with it, her inability to be herself because she doesn’t know who that is, her desire to please everyone (particularly her mother) at the cost of losing pieces of herself, her life living as the “black sheep” of the family - the quiet one amongst very loud and bold people.
Initially, I didn’t trust Cass (Black) when they first met. (For context, Cass is an up-and-coming music popstar who is very attractive and wears flashy, colorful outfits. He comes from a normal family who is not pleased with his fame and doesn’t know how to deal with it.) However, Cass becomes Kia’s rock, and his presence in her story pushes her to make more decisions for herself. The romance between Cass and Kia is very sweet and very positive. Both of them support one another in some really beautiful moments throughout the course of the novel. Link to complete review: https://ysbookreviews.wordpress.com/2...
January 8, 2026
This was a thoughtful, emotional, and engaging read — one that gave me a lot to think about, even if it didn’t quite hit 5-star territory for me.
The Education of Kia Greer explores what it’s like to grow up in the public eye and desperately want something normal. Kia, the daughter of a reality TV star, longs for ordinary teenage experiences — high school parties, friendships, falling in love, and figuring out who she is without a camera watching. That tension between privilege and pressure is really well done and felt authentic throughout the story.
The romance between Kia and Cass starts out sweet and hopeful, but what I appreciated most is that the book doesn’t romanticize fame or pretend love solves everything. Their relationship unfolds under constant scrutiny, rumor, and expectation, which adds realism and complexity. Kia’s internal struggle — separating what she wants from what the world expects of her — is clearly the heart of this story.
Where the book really shines is in its commentary on image, media, and how young women are shaped (and reshaped) by public perception. Kia’s journey toward self-definition is compelling and often heartbreaking. That said, there were moments where the pacing felt a little uneven for me, and I wanted just a bit more depth in certain relationships, which kept this from being a full 5-star read.
Still, this is a smart, heartfelt YA novel with a lot to say about autonomy, identity, and first love under pressure. I’m really glad I read it, and I’d absolutely recommend it to readers who enjoy character-driven coming-of-age stories with emotional depth.
The Education of Kia Greer explores what it’s like to grow up in the public eye and desperately want something normal. Kia, the daughter of a reality TV star, longs for ordinary teenage experiences — high school parties, friendships, falling in love, and figuring out who she is without a camera watching. That tension between privilege and pressure is really well done and felt authentic throughout the story.
The romance between Kia and Cass starts out sweet and hopeful, but what I appreciated most is that the book doesn’t romanticize fame or pretend love solves everything. Their relationship unfolds under constant scrutiny, rumor, and expectation, which adds realism and complexity. Kia’s internal struggle — separating what she wants from what the world expects of her — is clearly the heart of this story.
Where the book really shines is in its commentary on image, media, and how young women are shaped (and reshaped) by public perception. Kia’s journey toward self-definition is compelling and often heartbreaking. That said, there were moments where the pacing felt a little uneven for me, and I wanted just a bit more depth in certain relationships, which kept this from being a full 5-star read.
Still, this is a smart, heartfelt YA novel with a lot to say about autonomy, identity, and first love under pressure. I’m really glad I read it, and I’d absolutely recommend it to readers who enjoy character-driven coming-of-age stories with emotional depth.
May 12, 2025
Big shoutout to NetGalley for the ARC!
The Education of Kia Greer was my first read by Alanna Bennett, and let me just say—what a powerful introduction. As soon as I finished, I was deep-diving her background and adding her previous work to my TBR. Her voice? Fresh, fearless, and full of heart.
Kia is the kind of main character that sticks with you—real, layered, and caught between who the world expects her to be and who she actually is. Watching her navigate the chaos of fame while trying to stay true to herself? Whew, it hit deep. There’s something so relatable in that push-and-pull of performance versus authenticity.
Now, I’m not usually pulled in by reality TV-focused stories, so it took me a minute to find my footing. But once I got into the flow? I was locked in. Bennett brings so much depth and nuance to this world—it’s loud, it’s messy, but it’s also full of heart. You can tell she knows the culture inside and out, and it makes every scene feel textured and real.
The middle of the book is where it really started cooking—the tension, the pacing, the emotional shifts. I had to remind myself to slow down because I wanted to devour it all at once. And the way Bennett frames Kia’s voice through her own writing (no spoilers!)? Pure brilliance. It added a whole other layer that made the story stand out.
This book delivers drama, vulnerability, and truth with a side of pop culture flair. Alanna Bennett has a pen that speaks, and I’m absolutely here for whatever she drops next.
The Education of Kia Greer was my first read by Alanna Bennett, and let me just say—what a powerful introduction. As soon as I finished, I was deep-diving her background and adding her previous work to my TBR. Her voice? Fresh, fearless, and full of heart.
Kia is the kind of main character that sticks with you—real, layered, and caught between who the world expects her to be and who she actually is. Watching her navigate the chaos of fame while trying to stay true to herself? Whew, it hit deep. There’s something so relatable in that push-and-pull of performance versus authenticity.
Now, I’m not usually pulled in by reality TV-focused stories, so it took me a minute to find my footing. But once I got into the flow? I was locked in. Bennett brings so much depth and nuance to this world—it’s loud, it’s messy, but it’s also full of heart. You can tell she knows the culture inside and out, and it makes every scene feel textured and real.
The middle of the book is where it really started cooking—the tension, the pacing, the emotional shifts. I had to remind myself to slow down because I wanted to devour it all at once. And the way Bennett frames Kia’s voice through her own writing (no spoilers!)? Pure brilliance. It added a whole other layer that made the story stand out.
This book delivers drama, vulnerability, and truth with a side of pop culture flair. Alanna Bennett has a pen that speaks, and I’m absolutely here for whatever she drops next.
July 21, 2025
The Education of Kia Greer by Alanna Bennett is one of those books that feels like it really gets what it’s like to be a teen trying to do everything right while quietly wondering if you even know what right is anymore.
📚✨ Figuring out who you are? Yeah, there’s no cheat sheet for that.
Kia is laser-focused on becoming valedictorian at her super competitive prep school. She’s got the grades, the discipline, and the carefully curated version of herself that makes her seem like she’s got it all under control. But underneath it all? She’s exhausted, unsure and starting to question if she’s chasing her dreams or someone else’s idea of success.
As things begin to unravel friendship drama, family pressure, a secret podcast she maybe accidentally starts Kia is forced to reevaluate everything she thought she wanted. It’s a story about ambition, identity, burnout, and learning that it’s okay not to have it all figured out by 17.
Alanna Bennett does a great job weaving in themes of race, class, and academic pressure in a way that feels honest but never heavy-handed. Kia’s voice is sharp, smart, and deeply relatable, especially if you’ve ever felt like you’re constantly walking a tightrope between what you want and what people expect of you.
Overall it's thoughtful, heartfelt, and refreshingly real. Kia’s journey doesn’t come with easy answers but watching her ask the hard questions is exactly what makes this book so impactful.
📚✨ Figuring out who you are? Yeah, there’s no cheat sheet for that.
Kia is laser-focused on becoming valedictorian at her super competitive prep school. She’s got the grades, the discipline, and the carefully curated version of herself that makes her seem like she’s got it all under control. But underneath it all? She’s exhausted, unsure and starting to question if she’s chasing her dreams or someone else’s idea of success.
As things begin to unravel friendship drama, family pressure, a secret podcast she maybe accidentally starts Kia is forced to reevaluate everything she thought she wanted. It’s a story about ambition, identity, burnout, and learning that it’s okay not to have it all figured out by 17.
Alanna Bennett does a great job weaving in themes of race, class, and academic pressure in a way that feels honest but never heavy-handed. Kia’s voice is sharp, smart, and deeply relatable, especially if you’ve ever felt like you’re constantly walking a tightrope between what you want and what people expect of you.
Overall it's thoughtful, heartfelt, and refreshingly real. Kia’s journey doesn’t come with easy answers but watching her ask the hard questions is exactly what makes this book so impactful.
May 14, 2025
Kia’s is a coming-of-age story for the moment and for the YA canon, absolutely overflowing with heart and compassion and the hard-won determination. Alanna Bennett’s talent for character writing coupled with her attention to detail (yes, I did look up every dress and book and art piece she mentioned) makes for a truly moving, unforgettable read. It’s genuinely wild to read such a beautiful depiction of first love in a debut novel, unless maybe you take into consideration Bennett’s past work in stellar romance and YA television, as well as her ongoing appreciation for and study of love stories in all media through her writing classes. This book navigates pop culture, beauty standards, parasocial relationships, family expectations, mental illness, and a host of other issues facing young people with empathy and clarity. Bennett mines one of the least relatable environments — extreme, monocultural fame and wealth — for a messy, human, deeply personal narrative that from the first moment tears away pretense and hyper-managed perception. I loved Kia from page 1. I hope this is on library shelves and in English classrooms everywhere, with a list of borrower requests a mile long. I loved getting to know Kia as she got to know herself, and I truly hope as many readers as possible get the same opportunity.
March 25, 2025
4.5 stars rounded up to 5 for Goodreads/NetGalley!
I'm a long time fan of Alanna Bennett from her work as a culture writer and also as a tv writer on Roswell, New Mexico and XO, Kitty (two shows that I would describe as juicy, addictive, and craveable). I also took her class Nancy & Nora & You & Me where she broke down the work of Nancy Meyers and Nora Ephron.
All of this to say that I was coming in with pretty high expectations for Bennett's novel debut and she absolutely delivered!! The Education of Kia Greer tells the story of a teenage girl who comes from a famous reality show family but doesn't feel like she's built for the life she was born into. Kia is conflicted about the responsibility she feels to her family while also wanted to find the right path for herself. Add on top of this she is falling in love with a popstar, which further puts her introverted nature at odds with the life she has landed in.
Bennett has such a strong voice and lovingly writes Kia, Cass, and all of the characters that make up this world. I was so totally swept up in this world and no spoilers but I love the whole journey and I desperately hope that this gets a 6-8 episode adaptation on Netflix! 🙏🙏🙏
Thanks to NetGalley and Random House Children's for the ARC!
I'm a long time fan of Alanna Bennett from her work as a culture writer and also as a tv writer on Roswell, New Mexico and XO, Kitty (two shows that I would describe as juicy, addictive, and craveable). I also took her class Nancy & Nora & You & Me where she broke down the work of Nancy Meyers and Nora Ephron.
All of this to say that I was coming in with pretty high expectations for Bennett's novel debut and she absolutely delivered!! The Education of Kia Greer tells the story of a teenage girl who comes from a famous reality show family but doesn't feel like she's built for the life she was born into. Kia is conflicted about the responsibility she feels to her family while also wanted to find the right path for herself. Add on top of this she is falling in love with a popstar, which further puts her introverted nature at odds with the life she has landed in.
Bennett has such a strong voice and lovingly writes Kia, Cass, and all of the characters that make up this world. I was so totally swept up in this world and no spoilers but I love the whole journey and I desperately hope that this gets a 6-8 episode adaptation on Netflix! 🙏🙏🙏
Thanks to NetGalley and Random House Children's for the ARC!
April 22, 2025
A fictionalized look at what it might be like to grow up as part of a famous reality show family. Kia is the second youngest Greer daughter, and not really sure where she fits in in her larger than life family. She's not even sure if she likes being in the spotlight, but she's never had a choice. When she starts her first relationship, she really begins to question her life. What does the future look like for Kia Greer? Can she get what she wants without losing her family?
I was intrigued by this premise. I've never been one to watch much reality tv, other than competition shows, but this sounded like a read I'd enjoy. I started out really liking it, but it did slightly lose my interest by the end. It's easy to relate to how Kia feels like an outsider in her own family, an introvert surrounded by extroverts. Her love for her sisters and her burgeoning relationship with Cass were sweet. Towards the end it got into some plot elements which I was not a huge fan of reading, though. I don't regret the read, but probably wouldn't pick it up again.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I was intrigued by this premise. I've never been one to watch much reality tv, other than competition shows, but this sounded like a read I'd enjoy. I started out really liking it, but it did slightly lose my interest by the end. It's easy to relate to how Kia feels like an outsider in her own family, an introvert surrounded by extroverts. Her love for her sisters and her burgeoning relationship with Cass were sweet. Towards the end it got into some plot elements which I was not a huge fan of reading, though. I don't regret the read, but probably wouldn't pick it up again.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
May 13, 2025
"Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?"
Thank you Alanna Bennett (@alannabennett), Knopf Books for Young Readers (@knopfyoungreaders), Random House Children's Books Teachers & Librarians (@RHCBEducators) for the advanced reader copy and the opportunity to read this silky smooth modern take on young celebrity. This is the celebrity story you don’t always see. While in real life some celebrities decide to disappear from the public eye Kia Greer finds that possibility too far to dream of. This is the girl who recognizes she has so much to offer the world, however, too often she finds the noise full of media gossip and raging online comments drown out her inner voice. Through confronting these issues Kia shows that she is the strong protagonist the next generation should look to in this age and Alanna is the perfect artist to bring her stardom and spirit to life.
Publication Date: May 13, 2025
Thank you Alanna Bennett (@alannabennett), Knopf Books for Young Readers (@knopfyoungreaders), Random House Children's Books Teachers & Librarians (@RHCBEducators) for the advanced reader copy and the opportunity to read this silky smooth modern take on young celebrity. This is the celebrity story you don’t always see. While in real life some celebrities decide to disappear from the public eye Kia Greer finds that possibility too far to dream of. This is the girl who recognizes she has so much to offer the world, however, too often she finds the noise full of media gossip and raging online comments drown out her inner voice. Through confronting these issues Kia shows that she is the strong protagonist the next generation should look to in this age and Alanna is the perfect artist to bring her stardom and spirit to life.
Publication Date: May 13, 2025
May 29, 2025
Kia is a teen who is trying to navigate life, figure out what she wants to do, and how to make it happen while being forced into living her life in the spotlight.
Her parents are heavily invested in their reality show and fame, not really caring that their daughters didn’t ask for this life and the problems it brings.
This was a pretty good story that I’m sure most teens could learn from and relate to. Kia endured some pretty heavy issues that really piqued my interest. She’s longing for purpose, exploring a new love, finding her voice and forging her path. There was quite a bit of growth in Kia’s journey that I appreciated.
The audiobook narration was good, but made the story seem a little kiddish.
The story felt like a mashup between Kardashians (living in the spotlight, fame, questionable parenting) and the Netflix show, Forever, (teenagers being teenagers), I think you will enjoy this book!!
Thanks to @libro.fm for my ALC!
Her parents are heavily invested in their reality show and fame, not really caring that their daughters didn’t ask for this life and the problems it brings.
This was a pretty good story that I’m sure most teens could learn from and relate to. Kia endured some pretty heavy issues that really piqued my interest. She’s longing for purpose, exploring a new love, finding her voice and forging her path. There was quite a bit of growth in Kia’s journey that I appreciated.
The audiobook narration was good, but made the story seem a little kiddish.
The story felt like a mashup between Kardashians (living in the spotlight, fame, questionable parenting) and the Netflix show, Forever, (teenagers being teenagers), I think you will enjoy this book!!
Thanks to @libro.fm for my ALC!
June 13, 2025
3.5 Stars
A book about a Kardashian-esque, reality TV family isn’t usually my kind of thing, but I was pleasantly surprised by The Education of Kia Greer. This book is advertised as a PR-inspired romance that turns real, but it’s more of a coming-of-age story about growing up as a young, Black woman in the public eye. I’m not mad about it.
I enjoyed the scenes between Kia and her sisters. Their sibling bond was sweet, as was Kia’s relationship with Cass. This was a healthy portrayal of teenage love, which we could all use more of in books.
Kia has an authenticity as a teenage girl that is refreshing. Her insecurities and internal struggles are relatable, despite all that is unusual about her life. The complexities of fame and the struggle of making your own way in the world as a young adult are explored well.
My biggest complaint is that, for a book about reality TV stars, it could be a bit slow. I think this was partly due to the length and partly due to Kia’s personality. She is more introverted and less prone to drama than her family. I personally found this refreshing, but it’s not necessarily a fast read.
Overall, a little predictable, but still a fun YA read. A perfect book for the summer months.
For more bookish content:
https://www.instagram.com/readwithjad...
A book about a Kardashian-esque, reality TV family isn’t usually my kind of thing, but I was pleasantly surprised by The Education of Kia Greer. This book is advertised as a PR-inspired romance that turns real, but it’s more of a coming-of-age story about growing up as a young, Black woman in the public eye. I’m not mad about it.
I enjoyed the scenes between Kia and her sisters. Their sibling bond was sweet, as was Kia’s relationship with Cass. This was a healthy portrayal of teenage love, which we could all use more of in books.
Kia has an authenticity as a teenage girl that is refreshing. Her insecurities and internal struggles are relatable, despite all that is unusual about her life. The complexities of fame and the struggle of making your own way in the world as a young adult are explored well.
My biggest complaint is that, for a book about reality TV stars, it could be a bit slow. I think this was partly due to the length and partly due to Kia’s personality. She is more introverted and less prone to drama than her family. I personally found this refreshing, but it’s not necessarily a fast read.
Overall, a little predictable, but still a fun YA read. A perfect book for the summer months.
For more bookish content:
https://www.instagram.com/readwithjad...
June 9, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Children's for the ARC!
The Education of Kia Greer is a heartfelt, drama-filled coming-of-age story that pulls you behind the scenes of reality TV fame. Think Kardashians, but with more depth and a lot more honesty.
Kia is the daughter of a momager obsessed with keeping her girls famous, but she’s over it. Tired of the spotlight and struggling with her mental health, she finds unexpected comfort in Cass, a rising entertainer who sees the real her. Their relationship is sweet, supportive, and full of healthy communication (yes, finally!).
This book explores body image, beauty standards, and the dark side of growing up famous, but also highlights the power of choosing your own path. Kia’s bond with her sisters is chaotic but real, and her journey to self-love is both emotional and inspiring.
A perfect pick for anyone who loves reality TV, YA romance, and stories about finding your voice in a world that wants to silence it. I loved it!
The Education of Kia Greer is a heartfelt, drama-filled coming-of-age story that pulls you behind the scenes of reality TV fame. Think Kardashians, but with more depth and a lot more honesty.
Kia is the daughter of a momager obsessed with keeping her girls famous, but she’s over it. Tired of the spotlight and struggling with her mental health, she finds unexpected comfort in Cass, a rising entertainer who sees the real her. Their relationship is sweet, supportive, and full of healthy communication (yes, finally!).
This book explores body image, beauty standards, and the dark side of growing up famous, but also highlights the power of choosing your own path. Kia’s bond with her sisters is chaotic but real, and her journey to self-love is both emotional and inspiring.
A perfect pick for anyone who loves reality TV, YA romance, and stories about finding your voice in a world that wants to silence it. I loved it!
July 12, 2025
Audiobook was really well done with Regan Aliyah as narrator. I listened at 1.5x speed (1.25 at times) and still absorbed the range of emotions and remained connected to the plot.
Along with being extremely well written, I appreciated the topics Bennett addresses in this book and how empathetically she shines a light on the corrosive effects of fame, modern celebritism, the pressures of sex/gender assignment, and just growing up in general. I am not at all the key demographic for this book (older, white, cis, woman) but it still resonated deeply. I loved Cas' explanation of why he wasn't ready to come out. So perfectly explained. And boy does Bennett do a great job of making you hate the mother! lol
Overall, an interesting, heartfelt journey. I've always disliked reality TV (Kardashians especially). This book reinforces that stance but has made me take a softer view of the people trapped beneath its lights.
Along with being extremely well written, I appreciated the topics Bennett addresses in this book and how empathetically she shines a light on the corrosive effects of fame, modern celebritism, the pressures of sex/gender assignment, and just growing up in general. I am not at all the key demographic for this book (older, white, cis, woman) but it still resonated deeply. I loved Cas' explanation of why he wasn't ready to come out. So perfectly explained. And boy does Bennett do a great job of making you hate the mother! lol
Overall, an interesting, heartfelt journey. I've always disliked reality TV (Kardashians especially). This book reinforces that stance but has made me take a softer view of the people trapped beneath its lights.
July 22, 2025
Ugh it's a definite five-star read for me, but I'm so torn on the ending. The realistic part of me is like, "Hell yeah! I love a YA novel that doesn't end with two TEENAGERS making a life-long commitment to each other that is, in all likelihood, unrealistic," and the other part of me is like, "But I really wanted them to very clearly, romantically wind up together." But my baby sister is seventeen and this is the sort of novel I wish I had been exposed to at seventeen, so I think the former definitely wins out here.
Alanna Bennett's writing is just a damn delight! This novel was fun to read, it got me involved so quickly, and it did a really fantastic job of making me feel so deeply for Kia despite the fact that I normally would HATE the whole "my life is hard despite all my riches" sort of trope. It makes a ton of sense for a kid who was raised in it and I think Bennett does a fantastic job of showing us that.
Alanna Bennett's writing is just a damn delight! This novel was fun to read, it got me involved so quickly, and it did a really fantastic job of making me feel so deeply for Kia despite the fact that I normally would HATE the whole "my life is hard despite all my riches" sort of trope. It makes a ton of sense for a kid who was raised in it and I think Bennett does a fantastic job of showing us that.
May 10, 2025
ARC Review ✨️
☆Fantastic☆
Everything about this story is amazing! This is the author's debut, and I'm so happy I ended up finding this book! The writing was immaculate, and I couldn't get enough of the FMC Kia😍💞 She's the best🙌
The story teaches us a lot of valuable lessons within the pages, and it makes it a beautiful read🥹💞 Kia is part of a reality show and struggling to navigate her life in the spotlight. Then she meets Cass, and all is good for a short while. Until things end up causing it to become messy.
The bonds, the love, the strong emotions, the very well written characters, all came together to create such a very powerful coming of age story and I feel like it's going to benefit all who read it🙌
Thanks so much to the author, Penguin Random House, and Netgalley for the ARC!
☆Fantastic☆
Everything about this story is amazing! This is the author's debut, and I'm so happy I ended up finding this book! The writing was immaculate, and I couldn't get enough of the FMC Kia😍💞 She's the best🙌
The story teaches us a lot of valuable lessons within the pages, and it makes it a beautiful read🥹💞 Kia is part of a reality show and struggling to navigate her life in the spotlight. Then she meets Cass, and all is good for a short while. Until things end up causing it to become messy.
The bonds, the love, the strong emotions, the very well written characters, all came together to create such a very powerful coming of age story and I feel like it's going to benefit all who read it🙌
Thanks so much to the author, Penguin Random House, and Netgalley for the ARC!
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