A review by ambershelf
Entitlement by Rumaan Alam

5.0

4.5/5 ARC and ALC gifted by the publisher

I loved this brilliant examination of privilege following a white billionaire trying to give away his fortune and his Black assistant (program manager?) with a middle-class upbringing. The aspects of a meaningful life/career are fascinating. Is helping a rich dude give away money more meaningful than an interior designer helping said rich guy pick out furniture?

I also love how the author explores privilege. Not just wealth, race, and the intersection of both, but also one’s youth and attractiveness. The questions of what’s considered “ethical” to use one’s privilege to make money is another theme I loved reading about in ENTITLEMENT.

Lastly, the author raises a very intriguing question about becoming wealthy. Does being rich make one selfish? Or is being self centered a prerequisite of amassing wealth?

Highly recommend reading this book with a group. There will be so much to discuss!!