Good Kings Bad Kings by Susan Nussbaum centers on intertwining lives at an institution for disabled youth, highlighting systemic neglect and resilience. Yessenia, a fiery teenager, grapples with her new surroundings, befriending empathetic staff like Joanne and Ricky. As the characters confront the institution's injustices, a tragic event sparks a unifying protest that demands reform and creates lasting change. Sensitive topics include sexual abuse and systemic neglect.

Susan Nussbaum's Good Kings Bad Kings presents a compelling narrative set in a Chicago facility for disabled youth, praised for its authentic dialogue and diverse characters. Critics commend its humor and raw honesty, though some feel the multiple perspectives can diffuse its emotional impact. Overall, it’s a powerful and insightful read on institutional life and resilience.

Readers who appreciate The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time and Stoner will gravitate towards Good Kings Bad Kings by Susan Nussbaum. This book appeals to those interested in character-driven narratives, social justice themes, and the inner workings of institutional life. Ideal for readers who value diverse perspectives and representation.

Emotional / Challenging / Gritty / Heartwarming / Informative

- Good Kings Bad Kings won the 2012 PEN/Bellwether Prize for Socially Engaged Fiction, a notable award recognizing novels that address issues of social justice.
- Susan Nussbaum, the author of Good Kings Bad Kings, is a playwright and disability rights activist, leveraging her background to authentically portray the lived experiences of people with disabilities.
- The book has been praised for its diverse and multi-dimensional characters, breaking away from stereotypical representations of disability in literature.

**Joanne Madsen**  
Joanne is a wealthy yet altruistic woman whose perseverance and humor drive her efforts to support those in need, especially within the disabled community.

**Yessenia Lopez**  
As a determined and outspoken young disabled teen, Yessenia is driven by her challenging upbringing to strive for social equality and lead impactful protests.

**Ricky Hernandez**  
Ricky is an empathetic and carefree Puerto Rican man who uses his warmth and tenderness to make meaningful connections and support those around him.

**Jimmie Kendrick**  
Jimmie is a robust and fearless woman from South Chicago who becomes a beloved protector of the disabled youth, drawing from her own past struggles.

**Teddy Dobbs**  
Teddy is a playful and humorous teenager whose popularity among peers highlights his innocence, making his storyline deeply impactful.

**Michelle Volkmann**  
Michelle works as a nursing home recruiter and represents the corporate healthcare system, but she ultimately seeks redemption through self-awareness and change.

**Mia Ovedio**  
Mia is a blind and physically disabled girl who faces profound challenges but finds strength in her emotional recovery and community support.

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Chapters 1-4

Good Kings Bad Kings Chapters 1-4 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 5-9

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Chapters 10-13

Good Kings Bad Kings Chapters 10-13 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 14-18

Good Kings Bad Kings Chapters 14-18 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 19-23

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Chapters 24-28

Good Kings Bad Kings Chapters 24-28 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 29-33

Good Kings Bad Kings Chapters 29-33 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 34-38

Good Kings Bad Kings Chapters 34-38 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 39-42

Good Kings Bad Kings Chapters 39-42 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 43-48

Good Kings Bad Kings Chapters 43-48 Summary & Analysis

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