The Nickel Boys Summary

In the introduction, we are introduced to Elwood Curtis, a New York City resident who once attended the Nickel Academy, a reform school in Florida that is currently being dismantled. When he learns about the discovery of a hidden cemetery on the school grounds, he feels compelled to revisit the institution and share his experiences. As a teen in 1962, Elwood lived in Tallahassee, Florida and was deeply influenced by the speeches of Martin Luther King, Jr. he heard on records. These speeches educated him about the Civil Rights Movement. Raised by his stern grandmother, he had to deal with betrayal by the staff at the hotel where she worked. Despite being a competent and smart individual, his high ideals land him in trouble and he ends up at the Nickel Academy due to a misunderstanding.

At Nickel Academy, Elwood learns the hard truth that the institution is not for education but a cover for horrific activities. Despite attempting to stay out of trouble, he lands himself in a brutal situation after standing up against bullying. He recovers in the infirmary where his best friend counsels him to avoid conflicts. However, Elwood remains convinced that people will always do the right thing when faced with injustice. His return to the academy's life involves participation in dubious activities. When a student boxing match ends in the brutal death of a participant, Elwood decides to document all he observes in a notebook.

In his adult years, Elwood is now a successful businessman. Despite his achievements, he still reflects on the damage the Nickel Academy inflicted on him and fellow students. He realizes the impact the academy had on his life, breaking him down and challenging his beliefs. When told of an impending state inspection, Elwood plans to expose the academy's corruption. However, his plan results in a severe beating. Decades later, he reconciles with his past and decides to testify at a hearing about the atrocities witnessed and suffered at the academy. The story ultimately reveals that he adopted the identity of his best friend who was killed during an escape attempt and his real name is Jack Turner. His horrifying experiences at the academy bring him a sense of closure and a commitment from his wife to help him heal.