A review by mhinnen
James by Percival Everett

adventurous challenging emotional funny fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes

4.75

I've never read The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn so I can't really compare the character of Jim in the two books. But I can say, that "James" stands on its own with splendid storytelling. I listened to the audiobook over several car rides and cringed at the use of N word throughout as well as the cruelty of racism that is so evident even as I laughed out loud and cheered at other points. This is a story of a man transcending the bounds of mental slavery, finding a way out of physical slavery, and using the inherent entrapments of systems of slavery against the perpetrators. What was perhaps an "adventure" for Huck Finn is a journey of escape and survival for James. The use of language and humor is brilliant. 

 In general, while the narration was really well done in the audiobook, I think this is the kind of book to sit down with and read in one or two sittings, going back and savoring turns of phrase and word choices.