I read The Nickel Boys during a trip to Austin in early June. I often associate books with places, and I think I will always remember reading this one there.

This is not an easy book to read. Based on the real-life Dozier School for Boys in Florida, Colson Whitehead follows the lives of two boys whose paths intertwine in ways neither could have imagined.

What struck me most was the realization that these events took place much more recently than I expected. The cruelty is difficult to comprehend, which makes the moments of friendship and hope all the more meaningful.

I also have to mention the ending. I certainly did not see the twist coming. When I finished the book, I found myself going back through the story in my mind and realizing that the clues had been there all along.

This is one of those books that reminds us history is never as far behind us as we think. It was a difficult read, but one that I am glad I picked up.

Buy The Nickel Boys on Bookshop.org. I love supporting indie bookstores!