A review by alylentz
James by Percival Everett

adventurous dark emotional funny reflective sad tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

I reread Huckleberry Finn before diving into this and really recommend the experience. I think considering the two texts together makes for a really engaging conversation for the reader. I found the transformations to the original narrative invigorating (especially the ending of this, which carries a lot of emotional weight and will really stick with me, vs. the ending of the original novel which I never really liked), but I can see if Huck Finn is one of your favorite books ever you might find fault with the changes
(though I will admit I did see the "twist" coming and am surprised to see others so dismayed)
. I also think those coming to this without having read Percival Everett before might be taken aback by some of the choices, but I think the transformation and reclamation here are extremely well done and memorable. 
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