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A review by leahgustafson
James by Percival Everett
adventurous
dark
emotional
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
This is an absolute MASTERPIECE! I’m not sure there is any more I can say about this book that hasn’t already been said.
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I did take the time to read Huck Finn shortly before James, and I’m really glad I did. The beginning of James follows the storyline of Huck Finn closely, and knowing some of these details, I was better able to understand and appreciate Jim’s perspective, thoughts, and actions.
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Eventually Percival Everett diverges from the classic story of Huck Finn. I found these choices to be genius and incredibly impactful. The use and discussion of language as a tool for survival is SO powerful!
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This book portrays the realities and brutalities of slavery through Jim’s experiences, his thoughts/decision-making process, and the experiences of others he meets along his journey. This is, of course, contrasted with the ways Huck comprehends and moves through the world.
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James is an incredibly thought-provoking and important retelling.This book will easily be one of my Top 5 Books of 2024, if not THE best. I also believe it deserves a permanent spot in the literary canon. As a teacher, I couldn’t help but think how amazing it would be to teach these this alongside Huck Finn.
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Check out what I'm reading next on Instagram @LeahsLitReview!
•
I did take the time to read Huck Finn shortly before James, and I’m really glad I did. The beginning of James follows the storyline of Huck Finn closely, and knowing some of these details, I was better able to understand and appreciate Jim’s perspective, thoughts, and actions.
•
Eventually Percival Everett diverges from the classic story of Huck Finn. I found these choices to be genius and incredibly impactful. The use and discussion of language as a tool for survival is SO powerful!
•
This book portrays the realities and brutalities of slavery through Jim’s experiences, his thoughts/decision-making process, and the experiences of others he meets along his journey. This is, of course, contrasted with the ways Huck comprehends and moves through the world.
•
James is an incredibly thought-provoking and important retelling.This book will easily be one of my Top 5 Books of 2024, if not THE best. I also believe it deserves a permanent spot in the literary canon. As a teacher, I couldn’t help but think how amazing it would be to teach these this alongside Huck Finn.
•
Check out what I'm reading next on Instagram @LeahsLitReview!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Racism, Rape, and Slavery