James: A Novel

1. General Impressions

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

• How would you describe James's tone and mood? What elements of the work (plot points, narrative voice, etc.) contributed to that effect, and did you enjoy it?
• How did you feel about the novel’s ending? Did you find it a satisfying conclusion to the work’s themes, character arcs, etc.? Why or why not?
• What do you know about the modern-day controversy surrounding Huckleberry Finn’s depiction of race and racism? Did this influence the way you read James?

2. Personal Reflection and Connection 

Connect the book’s themes and characters with personal experiences.

• Family is central to James but also intertwined with much trauma: Enslavement jeopardizes Jim’s ability to remain with his wife and child, Huck’s father abuses him, etc. How did you feel about the novel’s depiction of family? Which relationships or moments resonated most with you, and why?
• Jim is a self-educated man who places a great deal of stock in his learning. How do Jim’s views on education compare to your own? What role has education played in your own life?
• For a variety of reasons, Huck is shocked to learn that Jim is his biological father.