James: A Novel

Super Short Summary

James by Percival Everett is a retelling of Mark Twain’s Adventures of Huckleberry Finn from the perspective of Jim, an enslaved man. Jim flees after learning that he is to be sold, and he partners with Huck, who is escaping his abusive father. They travel together on a river, encountering various people and challenges, until Jim ultimately reunites with his family and seeks freedom. The novel addresses themes related to morality, enslavement, and the resilience and humanity of enslaved people. The book includes depictions of racism, racial slurs, sexual assault, anti-Black violence, and enslavement.