by Percival Everett 

A Historical Fiction, 2024 by Knopf, 303 Pages 

What I Didn’t Like:

• Female characters in this book are treated TERRIBLY. Most of them get no page time and no importance whatsoever and they’re used as plot devices to further Jim’s story. 
• The connection between Huck and Jim, while it does explain some things, felt out of character and rubbed me the wrong way. In all the things this book changed from the source material, that one felt the most unforgivable.
• I wanted more emotional connection. I went into this book expecting to relate to James at a deeper level but much of the middle of the story felt like a listing of things that happened devoid of emotion.

What I Did Like:

• I loved the opening. You are right back in the time period of Tom and Huck, reminded of what life was like on that first page. James as a narrator is compelling and even more entertaining than the boys were. 
• The depth and power of language is a highlight here. Arguably the strongest thing this book does is show the power of language. One of the few things Jim feels like he has control of is how he speaks and who he shares his language with. That is a beautiful message. 
• Overall what was missing from Huck Finn’s original tale was this angle. This story tackles who James really was, what slavery was really like, and things the adults kept from kids at that time. 

Who Should Read This One:

• Historical Fiction fans, this is a must read. It captures the time period beautifully and adds something to the original.
• English majors. This deserves to be read alongside or immediately after dissecting Huck Finn.

My Rating: 4 Stars