A review by mightyfrenchbookworm
Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead

dark informative sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated

2.0

This novel, awarded the Pulitzer Prize, explores the deep injustices of the American system during the Jim Crow era. Although fictional, it is inspired by a real "reform school." The story reveals the horrors of this institution, particularly the systemic brutality and inhumanity inflicted on young African Americans.
I acknowledge the importance of the subject and was moved at times. However, the writing, minimalist and almost clinical, felt distant and cold to me. While this approach was likely chosen to honor the gravity of the topic without resorting to excessive dramatization, it created an emotional barrier for me. I did feel empathy for the main character, but nothing more. Reading the summary before starting, I expected to shed a few tears, which didn’t happen.
In short, although it is a relevant work, it didn’t resonate with me as I had hoped, perhaps due to my expectations or personal sensitivity. 
Expand filter menu Content Warnings