Read with Sharon - February 2025

James - Percival Everett

In honor of Black History Month, I’ve chosen James by Percival Everett as my February #ReadWithSharon book club pick.

James is a brilliant, action-packed reimagining of The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, that shifts the perspective to the enslaved Jim, revealing a harrowing yet darkly humorous journey of resilience, survival, and self-liberation.

This powerful novel offers a fresh, thought-provoking lens on an American classic, challenging long-held narratives and exploring themes of freedom, identity, and injustice. Everett’s masterful storytelling brings depth and agency to Jim’s character, making James an unforgettable read.

Join me on Thursday, February 27 at 7:00 pm ET via Zoom in discussing this compelling novel, which not only honors an essential voice in literature but also sparks meaningful conversations about history and its enduring impact.

P.S. Please post a photo of yourself reading James on Facebook or Instagram with the hashtag #ReadWithSharon

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Reviews

“James is a brilliant piece of fiction and I have once again been wowed by Percival Everett’s talent.” – Jamie

James is not only a profound retelling but a far-reaching commentary on race, freedom, and the enduring impact of slavery. With vivid characterization, harrowing depictions of survival, and a narrative that resonates with historical and contemporary truths, this book is one of the year’s best.” – Nilufer Ozmekik

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“Genius”—The Atlantic

“A masterpiece that will help redefine one of the classics of American literature, while also being a major achievement on its own.”—Chicago Tribune

“A provocative, enlightening literary work of art.”—The Boston Globe

“Everett’s most thrilling novel, but also his most soulful.”—The New York Times

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THE CHARACTER’S JOURNEY

  1. What did you think of Jim?

THE STORY PLOT

  1. Have you read The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn before?
  2. How does Everett subvert Twain’s original text?
  3. Did this reimagination change your perspective on the original novel?

THE ENDING

  1. Did it work for you?
  2. What would you have changed?
  3. After reading James, can you think of another character from a classic text that you would like to read as the narrator of their own story?
  4. What do you think is the author’s message to readers of James?
  5. What did you take away from the book?
  6. What was your reaction to the novel’s ending?
  7. What do you think the future holds for James and his family?
  8. Are you left with any questions?

SYMBOLISM AND FORESHADOWING

  1. Did you notice any symbolism?
  2. What foreshadowing did you notice?

THE WRITING

  1. Use one adjective to describe the writing itself.
  2. What would you change if you could rewrite James?

DEFINING CHARACTERISTIC

  1. What did you love most about the book?
  2. Did the book change any views/opinions that you have?