TEHRAN- American writer Percival Everett’s novel “James” has recently been published in Persian. 

Seyyed Reza Hosseini is the translator of the book, which has been published by Amut Publications in Tehran.

"James," published by Doubleday in 2024, offers a fresh and poignant retelling of Mark Twain's "Adventures of Huckleberry Finn." This reimagining shifts the narrative focus to Jim, Huck’s companion and an escaped slave, allowing for a deeper exploration of the complexities and brutal realities of American life during the 1860s.

The story unfolds on the Mississippi River in 1861, beginning with Jim clandestinely hiding on Jackson’s Island. Overhearing plans for his sale to a new master in New Orleans—separating him permanently from his wife and daughter—Jim's journey towards freedom and self-preservation begins. Meanwhile, Huck Finn has staged his own death to escape his abusive father, embarking on a perilous adventure of his own. Their paths cross as they travel together on a raft, navigating the turbulent waters toward an uncertain promise of freedom.

Although the novel retains elements from Twain's classic, it diverges substantially as Jim’s journey presents a more serious tone. As Jim sets out on his own picaresque adventures, the narrative delves into themes of racial violence, survival, and the haunting legacy of oppression. The novel does not shy away from addressing difficult subjects such as rape, murder, and systemic racism, making it a powerful companion piece to the original.

Critics have responded enthusiastically to "James." According to Book Marks, the novel has garnered "rave" reviews from nineteen critics, including seventeen that classified it as "rave" and one as "positive," while only a single review was negative. In the May/June 2024 issue of Bookmarks, the book earned a commendable rating of 4.00 out of 5. Some critics noted that while opinions varied on the novel's conclusion, the overall consensus likened it to a necessary companion to Twain's work. Notably, Dwight Garner from The New York Times emphasized that "James" surpasses many contemporary reimagining by elevating its sense of humanity.

The novel's critical acclaim has led to its shortlisting for the prestigious 2024 Booker Prize, signaling its impact in the literary world. Beyond the pages, "James" is also making waves in Hollywood; Universal Pictures, in collaboration with Amblin Entertainment, has acquired film rights, with Spielberg attached as an executive producer and Taika Waititi in discussions to direct.

In "James," Everett not only revisits a legendary narrative but also amplifies the voices of marginalized characters. This gripping odyssey serves as both a gripping adventure and a profound commentary on liberty and human dignity.

Percival Everett is an esteemed American writer and Distinguished Professor of English at the University of Southern California. Known for his "pathologically ironic" style, Everett explores various genres, including westerns, mysteries, satire, and philosophical fiction, often addressing race and identity issues in America.

His notable works include "Erasure" (2001), "I Am Not Sidney Poitier" (2009), and "The Trees" (2021), the latter shortlisted for the 2022 Booker Prize. 

The film adaptation of "Erasure," titled "American Fiction" (2023), showcases Everett's impact on literature and cinema. Notable for pushing the boundaries of identity and race, Everett remains a significant voice in contemporary American literature.

SAB/