Getting By

Jaire Sims’ Getting By is an enthralling coming-of-age narrative that follows Carver Goodman, a young African-American who has just turned seventeen. The author captures the dynamics within the school setup, exploring the issues that students face, including ACT, dealing with bullies, and falling in love. For young Carver, the most significant and disturbing event is the sudden discovery that he might be gay. As he engages in a romantic relationship, circumstances in his life put him in a position where his spot as one of the best students gets compromised. He knows he should do something about it, but is he ready for the consequences of the choices he makes at this moment?

Getting By features a protagonist that is well thought-out and intelligently developed, a relatable character in an exciting setting. Jaire Sims builds a realistic world in which the characters evolve, demonstrating great care when it comes to their inner worlds. The conflict is superbly written and I particularly enjoyed the inner conflict taking place within Carver, a conflict that revolves around his aspirations and sexuality. This novel explores some of the deepest questions that people face as they come of age: What the future holds for them, who they really are, and what relationships shape their lives. While Getting By is not an explosive story, it is skillfully plotted and character-driven, never lacking moments that are thoughtful and the humanity and realism that permeate good writing. The prose is excellent and the author writes in a voice that is irresistible. This is a deeply moving story that is rich, psychologically and emotionally, a perfect examination of longing, sexuality, and the complex ways in which we negotiate the experience of love and our deepest longings in life.