58 pages • 1 hour read
The Nickel Boys
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Book Brief
224
Novel • Fiction
Florida • 1960s
2019
YA
18+ years
HL940L
Super Short Summary
The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead follows Elwood Curtis, a young Black teenager in Florida during the Civil Rights era, who is sentenced to Nickel Academy after being wrongfully implicated in a crime. Elwood befriends Turner, and they navigate the reform school's harsh and abusive environment, while Elwood's ideals and sense of justice propel him to take action against the corruption and brutality he witnesses.
Dark
Mysterious
Melancholic
Gritty
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
292,724 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Colson Whitehead's The Nickel Boys masterfully blends historical fiction with a harrowing tale of abuse at a reform school. Reviewers praise its powerful storytelling and historical relevance. However, some criticize its pacing and predictability. Despite minor flaws, it remains a compelling and poignant read that sheds light on systemic injustices.
Who Should Read The Nickel Boys?
Readers who appreciate the gripping historical narratives and profound social critiques in The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead would enjoy works like The Underground Railroad by the same author and Beloved by Toni Morrison. Ideal for those interested in exploring injustices in America’s past through compelling storytelling.
292,724 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
224
Novel • Fiction
Florida • 1960s
2019
YA
18+ years
HL940L
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