Reddit meter
The Topeka School
304 pages, 2019
fiction
1382 booksFrom the award-winning author of 10:04 and Leaving the Atocha Station, a tender and expansive family drama set in the American Midwest at the turn of the century: a tale of adolescence, transgression, and the conditions that have given rise to the trolls and tyrants of the new right. Adam Gordon is a senior at Topeka High School, class of 1997. He is an aspiring poet and orator who can speak with great authority on issues ranging from foreign policy to school funding. He is revered by his peers as one of their best debaters--but he knows that his talent for speaking in front of an audience could become twisted if he lets it be known that he might use his skills for evil rather than good; thus he has become adept at concealing his true self from those around him.
In The Topeka School, Ben Lerner explores the power of language and how it shapes our reality. He shows us that the words we use can either build bridges or create divisions. It's a reminder to be mindful of our words and the impact they can have.
The book encourages us to look into our past to understand our present. Lerner's characters grapple with their personal histories, showing us that our past experiences shape who we are today. It's a call to dig into our own histories and see how they've influenced our lives.
Lerner also explores how society and its expectations can influence our actions and decisions. He shows us that societal pressures can often lead us astray from our true selves. It's a nudge to check if we're living authentically or just following the crowd.
The Topeka School delves into the complexity of human relationships. It shows us that relationships are not always black and white, but often exist in shades of gray. It's a reminder to be patient and understanding with the people in our lives.
The book also highlights the importance of mental health. Lerner's characters struggle with various mental health issues, showing us the impact it can have on our lives. It's a call to take mental health seriously and seek help when needed.
Quotes 4
The Topeka School is a novel of exhilarating intellectual inquiry, penetrating social insight, and deep psychological sensitivity.
Dwight Garner - Literary CriticThe Topeka School is a daring, dazzling book about the interplay of identity, culture, and language.
Ron Charles - Book CriticThe Topeka School is a powerful exploration of the American psyche and the violence that surrounds us.
Parul Sehgal - Book ReviewerThe Topeka School is a major work of contemporary literature, a profound and provocative novel.
James Wood - Literary Critic