Wow, The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead is a powerful read! This book dives into some heavy stuff, tackling themes of racism and injustice while telling the story of two boys in a reform school in Florida during the 1960s. It’s based on a real-life school, and honestly, it’s hard to believe that this kind of brutality existed.

Whitehead’s writing is so engaging; he has this way of making you feel like you're right there with the characters, experiencing their struggles and hopes. The two main characters, Elwood and Turner, couldn’t be more different, but their friendship is at the heart of the story. Elwood is idealistic and believes in the power of Martin Luther King Jr.'s teachings, while Turner is more cynical and practical, which creates some really interesting dynamics between them.

What I loved about this book is how it balances the harsh realities of their environment with moments of hope and resilience. It’s definitely not an easy read—some parts are tough to get through because of the injustice and violence—but it's so important. Whitehead doesn’t shy away from showing the brutal truth, and it really makes you think.

If I had to point out a downside, I felt like the pacing was a bit uneven in parts, and I wanted a little more depth in some secondary characters. But overall, The Nickel Boys is a beautifully written, thought-provoking novel that stays with you long after you finish it. It’s a must-read if you’re into historical fiction that really packs a punch. Definitely worth the hype!