Elwood Curtis is a fictional character from the novel "The Nickel Boys," written by Colson Whitehead. Set in the 1960s, Elwood is a young African American boy who is sent to a reform school called Nickel Academy in Florida. The school is known for its harsh treatment of students and is based on real-life institutions that existed during that time. Elwood is inspired by the teachings of Martin Luther King Jr. and believes in the power of education and justice. Throughout the story, he faces numerous challenges as he navigates the brutal realities of the reform school while holding onto his ideals and hope for a better future.