Reviews
James is a sharp re-imagining of The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn told, this time, from the perspective of James, 'Jim'. It is a fantastic read that isn't afraid to confront the realities of Racism and Slavery. However Everett tells this tale with a soft, inquisitive feel that never strays into overbearing or heavy-handed territory.
Whilst I would have liked to have explored some of the more emotional beats a little more thoroughly, I really enjoyed reading this and having never read the Classic from Twain, its something I want to go and read sooner rather than later.
I think Mark Twain would have liked this story. James is a continuation of Huckleberry Finn's story; however, Huck's friend Jim (the slave) is the main character.
4.5 starsPercival Everett is a very clever writer. Not just in his satire but also in is his ability to speak to multiple audiences simultaneously. I really appreciated both of those in James. It is a deceptively sophisticated novel. What looks like a straightforward retelling of a literary classic, written in accessible prose, following a familiar adventure plot, actually has layer upon layer of meaning. Enslaved Africans had rich and complex interior intellectual and spiritual lives despite the dehumanizing systems they lived and labored under. They responded to the violence they faced in a variety of ways that proved their ingenuity, resilience, and compassion toward one another.I don't really have anything negative to say about this book. And it's interesting that much of the criticism I've read on here seems to reflect either white readers' connection to classic American literature or their deep investment in conventional narratives told about enslaved Africans. Not surprised though.This is the 4th novel by Everett I have read this year. While not my favorite, I still found it deserving of all the praise and accolades.
Loved it. Audiobook was 5 stars. Had a few issues with the last act, felt a bit rushed. Can't wait to see what Spielberg does with this.