Reimagining a Classic: Percival Everett's Bold Retelling of Huckleberry Finn

In a world where stories are constantly being re-examined, Percival Everett takes a daring step forward with his novel James, a contemporary retelling of Mark Twain's iconic work, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. This new interpretation not only redefines the narrative but also addresses the complexities of race, identity, and voice within the context of American literature.

Why This Retelling Matters

As a parent and an avid reader, I once found myself grappling with the nuances of Twain's original text during bedtime stories with my children. While the adventure captivated their imaginations, the outdated dialect and racial themes made me uncomfortable. My solution? To edit the text as I read it aloud, aiming to preserve the story's spirit while shielding my daughters from its more troubling aspects.

Fast forward nearly 140 years, and we see Everett stepping into the shoes of Twain, but with a fresh lens. In James, the character of Jim is transformed into James, the protagonist whose voice demands to be heard. This shift not only reclaims agency for a character often relegated to the sidelines but also challenges readers to reconsider the narrative dynamics of the original tale.

The Heart of the Narrative

• Point of View: Everett's choice to narrate from James's perspective offers readers a profound insight into his experiences, thoughts, and struggles.
• Language and Dialect: The novel navigates the complexities of language, showcasing James's ability to adapt his speech based on his audience—an essential skill in a racially divided society.
• Adventure Awaits: True to its roots, James is filled with thrilling escapades and colorful characters, making it a page-turner that honors the essence of Twain’s original work.

Everett's Unique Approach

The novel opens with a handwritten manuscript of a notebook belonging to Daniel Decatur Emmett, which initially puzzled me. However, as the story unfolds, we learn that Emmett's role is pivotal when James finds himself sold into a minstrel show. This intersection of identities—James as a Black man performing a caricature of himself—serves as a critical commentary on race and representation in the arts.

As James escapes, he carries with him the notebook, a symbol of his struggle to narrate his own story amidst a society that often silences him. Language becomes a battleground, and Everett masterfully explores who gets to tell the story and how that affects the narrative.

Everett's Legacy

Percival Everett is not just an accomplished author; he is also a distinguished professor of English at the University of Southern California. His works, including the critically acclaimed Erasure, have earned him a place in contemporary literary discussions. With James, he continues to push boundaries, inviting readers to engage with uncomfortable truths while embarking on a captivating adventure.

Join the Conversation

As we reflect on the themes presented in both Twain's and Everett's works, it’s essential to consider the evolving nature of storytelling. How do we navigate the complexities of race, history, and representation in literature? What responsibility do we have as readers and writers?

What do you think?

• Should classic literature be altered to reflect contemporary values, or does this undermine the original work?
• How do you feel about the portrayal of race in both Twain's and Everett's narratives?
• Can we truly separate an author from their work, especially when addressing sensitive subjects?
• What impact do you think a retelling like James has on younger readers?