James by Percival Everett

James

by Percival Everett

A Dangerous and Transcendent Odyssey

The Mississippi River, 1861. When the enslaved James overhears that he is about to be sold to a new owner in New Orleans and separated from his wife and daughter forever, he decides to hide on nearby Jackson’s Island until he can formulate a plan. Meanwhile, Huck Finn has faked his own death to escape his violent father who recently returned to town.

Thus begins a dangerous and transcendent journey by raft along the Mississippi River, towards the elusive promise of the free states and beyond. In this brilliant reimagining of Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, Percival Everett gives voice to the man known to history only as "Jim." As James and Huck navigate the treacherous waters, each bend in the river holds the promise of both salvation and demise.

With rumors of a brewing war, James must face the immense burden he carries: the family he is desperate to protect and the constant lie he must live to survive. James is a harrowing and often hilarious subversion of a classic American odyssey, exploring the power of literacy, agency, and the enduring human spirit.

Who Readers Will Love This

• Scholars of American Literature: Readers looking for a profound, modern dialogue with the works of Mark Twain.
• Historical Fiction Enthusiasts: Those who appreciate stories that challenge established historical narratives through a personal lens.
• Fans of Intellectual Satire: Readers who enjoy Percival Everett’s signature blend of high-concept subversion and deep emotional stakes.

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