Melanated Women Read: The Nickel Boys

Melanated Women Read is a book discussion group by and especially for Black women. This month we discuss The Nickel Boys, by Colson Whitehead.

The Nickel Boys is a novel inspired by the Arthur G. Dozier School for Boys in Florida. It won the Pulitzer Prize, the Kirkus Prize, and the Orwell Prize for Political Fiction.

In 1960s Florida, Elwood Curtis has taken the words of Dr. Martin Luther King to heart: he is as good as anyone. Abandoned by his parents, brought up by his loving, strict and clear-sighted grandmother, Elwood is about to enroll in the local black college. The Nickel Academy claims to provide “physical, intellectual and moral training” which will equip its inmates to become “honorable and honest men.”

In reality, the Nickel Academy is a chamber of horrors—and the only way to survive is to emulate the cruelty and cynicism of their oppressors. The tension leads to a decision which will have decades-long repercussions.

About Melanated Women Read:

Melanated Women Read is a virtual book group that is by and especially for Black women. The purpose and focus are on inspiring, uplifting reads, and providing a safe space for Black women to speak, vent and enjoy honest and open conversation.

The group chooses from books written by Black authors. The goal of this community-based group is to introduce a variety of Black writers who will help build a love of reading in a positive environment while meeting new people and gaining new perspectives.

Melanated Women Read meets virtually on the first Monday of each month.

Monday, July 07, 2025 | 06:30 PM - 08:00 PM
Zoom webinar (register for link)

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