Books James: A Novel   Percival Everett (Author)

"James" by Percival Everett is a reimagining of Mark Twain's "Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" told from the perspective of Jim, the enslaved man. The novel begins with Jim learning he will be sold and separated from his family, prompting him to escape. He is joined by Huck, a boy who fakes his death to escape his abusive father, and together they navigate dangers on the Mississippi River.

Throughout their journey, Jim encounters numerous hardships including betrayal, violence, and the harsh realities of slavery. He becomes involved with a minstrel troupe and meets Norman, a white-passing former slave, with whom he devises a plan to repeatedly sell Jim to raise money to buy back their loved ones. The story highlights Jim’s growth, literacy, and fight for freedom and family.