My Jim
Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1999
190
Novel • Fiction
Missouri • 1840s
1999
YA
18+ years
My Jim by Nancy Rawles follows Sadie Watson as she recounts her harrowing experiences of slavery and her enduring love for Jim, a character from Twain's Huckleberry Finn. Set against the backdrop of slavery and Reconstruction, the novel is divided into three parts: "Marianne Libre," where Sadie shares her past with her granddaughter Marianne; "Sadie Watson," detailing key moments and objects from Sadie's life; and "My Nanna," intertwining Sadie's and Marianne's perspectives as they piece together their family's history through a quilt, reflecting themes of love, loss, and resilience. The book addresses the brutal realities of slavery, physical abuse, sexual violence, and emotional trauma.
Melancholic
Emotional
Bittersweet
Mysterious
Contemplative
572 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
My Jim by Nancy Rawles has been praised for its lyrical prose and emotional depth, effectively portraying the struggles of African American slaves through a unique narrative voice. However, some readers feel the pacing is slow and the fragmented storytelling can be challenging to follow. Overall, it’s acknowledged for its powerful themes and evocative character portrayal.
Readers who appreciate deeply emotional narratives and historical fiction will enjoy My Jim by Nancy Rawles. Fans of works like The Help by Kathryn Stockett and Beloved by Toni Morrison will be captivated by the personal and poignant retelling of the life of Jim from Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.
572 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
190
Novel • Fiction
Missouri • 1840s
1999
YA
18+ years
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