July’s Bound Together Book Club: James
Writer / Christina Cochran
Every so often, a book comes along that reminds us what literature can do. For me, that book is James by Percival Everett, our July Franklin Magazine Book Club selection.
A brilliant reimagining of Mark Twain’s The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, James retells the classic story through the eyes of Jim, the enslaved man who accompanies Huck down the Mississippi River. While readers may recognize the framework of the original novel, Everett transforms it into something entirely new — sharper, deeper and far more profound.
What makes James extraordinary is not simply its premise, but its execution. Everett’s writing is masterful, weaving together humor, suspense, social commentary and emotional depth with remarkable precision. The novel examines language, identity, power and survival in ways that feel both timeless and urgently relevant. Every chapter reveals another layer of meaning, inviting readers to reconsider a story they may have thought they already knew.
It has been a long time since a novel impacted me this deeply. Long after I finished the final page, I found myself returning to its ideas, its characters and the sheer brilliance of its construction. Everett accomplishes something rare: He creates a book that is intellectually ambitious while remaining completely engrossing. It is a novel that rewards close reading, yet never loses sight of the power of storytelling.
At the heart of James is a voice that is unforgettable — witty, perceptive and profoundly human. Through that voice, Everett challenges readers to confront difficult truths while delivering a story that is impossible to put down.
Whether you’re an avid reader or looking for a book that will spark meaningful discussion, James is a remarkable choice. Winner of the 2025 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, it stands as one of the most celebrated novels of recent years. More importantly, it is one of the finest books I’ve read in a very long time — a powerful reminder that great literature doesn’t just entertain; it changes the way we see the world.
