In an unprecedented literary achievement, Percival Everett’s latest novel, "James," has taken the literary world by storm, swiftly becoming an instant New York Times bestseller. This action-packed reimagining of Mark Twain’s "Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" is both harrowing and darkly humorous, told from the perspective of the enslaved Jim. The novel has already been hailed as a masterpiece by critics and is in development as a feature film to be produced by none other than Steven Spielberg.
A Fresh Perspective on a Classic Tale
"James" provides a radical new light on Twain’s beloved story by emphasizing Jim’s agency, intelligence, and compassion. The narrative begins with Jim overhearing that he is about to be sold and separated from his family, prompting him to hide and eventually team up with Huck Finn on a journey down the Mississippi River. While familiar elements of the original story remain, Everett’s retelling offers a profound depth to Jim’s character, transforming the narrative into a compelling and enlightening literary work.
Critical Acclaim and Recognition
The novel has garnered accolades from various prestigious publications, including being named a Best Book of the Year So Far for 2024 by The New York Times Book Review, Esquire, W Magazine, Bustle, and LitHub. The Atlantic describes it as "Genius," while the Chicago Tribune calls it "a major achievement on its own." The Boston Globe praises it as "a provocative, enlightening literary work of art," and The New York Times lauds it as Everett’s "most thrilling novel, but also his most soulful."
In Development with Steven Spielberg
The cinematic potential of "James" has not gone unnoticed, with Steven Spielberg set to produce a feature film adaptation. This development is anticipated to bring Everett’s reimagining of Jim’s story to an even broader audience, further solidifying the novel’s impact on contemporary literature.
About the Author
Percival Everett is a Distinguished Professor of English at the University of Southern California and one of the most decorated writers of our time. His notable works include "Dr. No," "The Trees," "Telephone," "So Much Blue," "Erasure," and "I Am Not Sidney Poitier." Everett has received numerous awards, including the NBCC Ivan Sandrof Life Achievement Award and The Windham Campbell Prize from Yale University. He lives in Los Angeles with his wife, writer Danzy Senna, and their children.