We Carry Their Bones: Dozier School Investigation by Erin Kimmerle
Investigation: We Carry Their Bones by Erin Kimmerle investigates the Dozier School for Boys, its unmarked graves, and efforts to identify and reunite the buried children with their families. This 256-page account combines forensic anthropology with the history of abuse and Jim Crow-era Florida.
At a glance
- Forensic anthropologist Erin Kimmerle investigates the school’s burial site and the effort to identify the boys buried there.
- Covers forensic and DNA testing as part of work to reunite children with their families.
- Places the investigation in the context of abuse, racism, and the history of reform schools.
Reference price: $27.99
Price checked: Nov 14, 2026
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Pros and cons
Pros
- Pairs the history of the Dozier School with an account of forensic anthropology and grave identification.
- Explains the stakes of identifying unmarked graves and reconnecting remains with families.
Technical specifications
8 specifications| Publisher | William Morrow |
|---|---|
| Publication date | June 14, 2022 |
| Language | English |
| Print length | 256 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 0063030241 |
|---|---|
| ISBN-13 | 978-0063030244 |
| Weight listed | 2.31 pounds |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 6 x 0.89 x 9 inches |
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Readers of investigative nonfiction, forensic anthropology, and Florida history.
- Readers interested in the historical context behind The Nickel Boys.
Less suited to
- Readers seeking fiction or a light, emotionally undemanding read.
Customer reviews on Amazon
- 5 stars
58% 58% - 4 stars
25% 25% - 3 stars
14% 14% - 2 stars
2% 2% - 1 star
1% 1%
Customer feedback describes the book as informative and well documented, including appreciation for the detail on Kimmerle’s research and the role of multidisciplinary teams. Reactions to its emotional content are mixed. Given the subject matter of abuse, unmarked graves, and family loss, readers should expect a serious and potentially affecting account. Ratings are generally favorable but include a meaningful middle range, so they do not establish that every reader will respond the same way.
Positive themes
- Customers describe the book as informative and well documented.
- Feedback appreciates the detail on Kimmerle’s research and the role of multidisciplinary teams.
Mixed feedback
- Customer reactions to the emotional content are mixed.
Frequently asked questions
What is We Carry Their Bones about?
It follows Erin Kimmerle’s investigation of the Dozier School for Boys burial site and efforts to identify the boys buried there and reunite them with their families.
Is this the true story behind The Nickel Boys?
The listing describes the book as the true story behind The Nickel Boys and says it examines the real Dozier School history that the novel draws attention to.
How long is the book?
The listed print length is 256 pages.
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