Percival Everett's 'James' Reimagines 'Huckleberry Finn' with a Bold New Perspective

The novel offers a critical and nuanced exploration of race, history, and the power of self-authorship.

Percival Everett's new novel 'James' reimagines 'Huckleberry Finn' from the perspective of the enslaved character Jim, presenting him as a deeply intelligent and articulate narrator.
'James' is not just a retelling but a critique of historical narratives and a commentary on the importance of self-authorship for Black Americans
Everett's work is known for challenging norms and pushing against constraints, with 'James' continuing this tradition by offering a nuanced, interior look at its protagonist.
The novel has sparked discussions about the representation of Black characters in literature and the power dynamics of storytelling.
Everett, a respected and idiosyncratic writer, uses 'James' to engage in a discourse with Mark Twain, rather than indicting him, adding depth to the conversation about race, history, and literature.