Daniel asked this question about The Nickel Boys:
I've not finished the book but I'm bothered why the author did not go into more detail on how Elwood was convicted of that crime. Couldn't he have been absolved by his teacher and others, like his employer? I understand that blacks were not given anything close to fair treatment but simply having Elwood go from being in a stolen car to the Nickel "school" seems to be lacking more explanation. Comments?
Rebecca Elizabeth I also think it helps us understand Elwood - because he probably doesn't understand either. The trial and his sentencing must have seemed like a horri…moreI also think it helps us understand Elwood - because he probably doesn't understand either. The trial and his sentencing must have seemed like a horrible blur, or like a bad dream because it so surreal, unfair and not even close to what his life was like before.
To me, it really added to the shock of how a good kid with genuinely good intentions could end up in a place like Nickel.

So I actually think it helps us understand what Elwood is going through - and what it must feel like to be tossed into a new life you didn't really know existed.(less)
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by Colson Whitehead (Goodreads Author)
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