Super Short Summary

The Topeka School by Ben Lerner follows Adam, a talented teenage debater, and his psychologist parents, Jonathan and Jane, who work at a renowned Topeka institution. The narrative alternates between their perspectives and includes third-person sections about Darren, an intellectually disabled student. The novel’s plot centers on Adam's debate competitions, family dynamics, and Darren’s struggles with bullying and violence. The story addresses themes of mental health, relationships, and socio-political issues.