Book Review: James by Percival Everett
“Folks be funny lak dat. Dey takes the lies dey want and throws away the truths dat scares ’em.”
This quote from James by Percival Everett gives a great preview into the novel’s deep exploration of truth, perception, and the human condition. It reflects the novel’s core themes: the selective nature of belief and the harsh realities faced by its characters, particularly in the context of slavery and racial prejudice. In James, Everett not only reimagines Mark Twain’s classic Adventures of Huckleberry Finn but does so from the perspective of the often-overlooked character, Jim, offering a compelling and necessary narrative that challenges the original’s omissions.
Summary of James
James is a 304-page satirical fiction novel published in March 2024 by Doubleday. The novel, an instant New York Times bestseller and long-listed for the Booker Prize, is widely recognized as one of the most significant literary works of the year. With a 4.6-star rating from over 15,000 readers (at the time of writing this blog), James has garnered acclaim for its bold narrative and insightful commentary.
Everett’s novel reimagines The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, this time telling the story from Jim’s—now called James—perspective. When James learns that he is about to be sold and separated from his family, he decides to hide on Jackson Island, setting off a chain of events that mirror the original tale but with a fresh and harrowing perspective. This version not only retains key elements of Twain’s narrative, such as the raft journey and encounters with dubious characters, but it also provides James with greater depth, agency, and humanity. Everett’s James is a poignant, action-packed tale that breathes new life into a classic story, transforming it into a powerful exploration of freedom, dignity, and the human spirit.
Key Facts About James
James has received numerous accolades, including being named a Best Book of the Year by The New York Times Book Review, Esquire, W Magazine, and Tropes and Trifles. The novel is also in development as a feature film produced by Steven Spielberg, which further cements its status as a major cultural work.
Endorsements from notable figures such as Oprah Daily and publications like The Atlantic and The Chicago Tribune praise James for its subversive narrative and literary brilliance. These endorsements highlight the book’s impact and the significance of Everett’s reimagining of a classic.
Similar Books to James
If you enjoyed James by Percival Everett, here are nine similar books that you might find intriguing:
The List
The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain
Beloved by Toni Morrison
The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead
Native Son by Richard Wright
The Water Dancer by Ta-Nehisi Coates
Kindred by Octavia Butler
The Known World by Edward P. Jones
Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi
The Sellout by Paul Beatty
Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison
Who is Percival Everett?
Percival Everett is a prolific and acclaimed American author known for his versatility across genres, including literary fiction, satire, and historical novels. With over thirty novels to his name, Everett has established himself as a leading voice in contemporary literature. His works often explore themes of race, identity, and the complexities of the human experience. Everett’s background in philosophy and his deep understanding of American history are evident in his writing, making his novels both thought-provoking and rich in intellectual depth.
What Makes Percival Everett’s Writing Stand Out?
Percival Everett’s writing style in James is both lyrical and incisive, blending humor with profound social commentary. His prose is characterized by its sharp wit, descriptive precision, and the ability to convey complex ideas in an accessible manner. Everett excels in character development, particularly in his portrayal of James, who emerges as a fully realized, multidimensional character with a voice that resonates long after the final page. The pacing of the novel is expertly handled, balancing moments of intense action with reflective passages that invite readers to engage with the underlying themes.
James intricately explores themes of identity, race, and the personal journey of self-discovery in the context of African American experiences. It offers readers a profound reflection on what it means to be Black in contemporary society. You get a glimpse into historical contexts, societal pressures, and the nuances of interpersonal relationships, all of which shape James’s identity and worldview.
Key Takeaways from James
Here are five key takeaways from James, each capturing an essential aspect of the novel:
🧠 The Power of Perspective
James teaches us the importance of storytelling and who gets to tell the story, reminding us that every narrative has multiple sides.
🗣️ Voice and Agency
The novel gives a voice to those who have been historically silenced, emphasizing the power of self-representation.
🌊 The Journey to Freedom
Like the original, James is a journey toward freedom, but it also explores the internal struggle for dignity and humanity.
🎭 Humor and Satire
Everett masterfully uses humor and satire to critique societal norms, making the novel both entertaining and thought-provoking.
📚 Literary Reparation
James serves as a form of literary reparation, addressing and rectifying the shortcomings of Twain’s original narrative.
Throughout the novel, there are key moments that serve as turning points in James's journey. These moments often involve significant decisions or revelations that push James to confront his identity in new ways. Whether through interactions with other characters or through moments of introspection, these critical junctures are pivotal in shaping James's development.
What Makes James Special?
What sets James apart from other novels in its genre is its ability to simultaneously honor and critique a classic work of American literature. By reimagining Huckleberry Finn from the perspective of an enslaved man, Everett not only expands the original narrative but also challenges readers to rethink their understanding of American history and literature. The novel’s unique perspective, combined with its blend of humor, tragedy, and social commentary, makes it a standout work that is both timely and timeless.
Opinion on the Book’s Quality
In my opinion, James is a Great Book. It successfully redefines a classic, offering a fresh and necessary perspective that enhances the original. Everett’s storytelling is both engaging and enlightening, making James a must-read for anyone interested in American literature and history.
Who Would Enjoy This Book?
James is ideal for readers who enjoy historical fiction, literary reimaginings, and novels that tackle complex social issues. Fans of Mark Twain’s The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn will find this reimagining particularly compelling, as will readers who appreciate stories about the struggle for freedom and justice.
Top Books by Percival Everett
The List
The Trees
Erasure
I Am Not Sidney Poitier
So Much Blue
Glyph
Assumption
Dr. No
Telephone
Wounded
American Desert
Suggested Reading Plan
If James piqued your interest, consider starting with The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn to appreciate the original context. Follow it with James to experience Everett’s reimagining, and then explore some of the other similar books listed above to deepen your understanding of the themes and issues presented.
Top Authors in Similar Genres and Subjects, And Their Books
Toni Morrison - Beloved
Colson Whitehead - The Underground Railroad
Richard Wright - Native Son
Ta-Nehisi Coates - The Water Dancer
Octavia Butler - Kindred
Happy reading! 📚❤️
A Comprehensive List of Books Mentioned
The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain
Beloved by Toni Morrison
The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead
Native Son by Richard Wright
The Water Dancer by Ta-Nehisi Coates
Kindred by Octavia Butler
The Known World by Edward P. Jones
Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi
The Sellout by Paul Beatty
Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison
The Trees by Percival Everett
Erasure by Percival Everett
I Am Not Sidney Poitier by Percival Everett
So Much Blue by Percival Everett
Glyph by Percival Everett
Assumption by Percival Everett
Dr. No by Percival Everett
Telephone by Percival Everett
Wounded by Percival Everett
American Desert by Percival Everett