The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead is a painful, beautiful read that jumps back-and-forth through time, telling the story of a young boy's experience in a brutal reform school, and the aftermath that follows. (In fact, the story is a fictional retelling of life and abuse in Florida's now-shuttered Dozier School for Boys.)
Some parts are incredibly tough to get through, making them all the more important to read. If we turn our backs to uneasy realities, instead of bearing witness and taking action, then we leave the door open for continued suffering. I try to remind myself that indifference is a privilege, and it can have dangerous consequences.
There are some remarkably lovely moments in The Nickel Boys, too! Friendship, hope, the pursuit of a good life and a better future -- these play key roles in our main character's life, and provide much needed solace from the more painful passages.
At 200-ish pages, the book itself isn't terribly long, but the story will stay with you for a while. You will absolutely be moved by Whitehead's words. I highly recommend giving them a read, then sitting with your feelings afterward and seeing where they take you.
Image credit: Time Magazine
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