“I do not view the work as a corrective, but rather I see myself in conversation with Twain.” That’s how author Percival Everett describes the relationship of his latest novel, James, to Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, which Everett has reimagined by centering the perspective of the enslaved Jim. “This is Everett’s most thrilling novel, but also his most soulful,” wrote The New York Times’ Dwight Garner in a rave; the Booker Prize committee agreed, shortlisting the book on Monday. Everett’s Austin stop is free and open to the public, but waitlist only at this point. Good news: You can also livestream the event; just head to the John L. Warfield Center for African American Studies’ YouTube channel and click the “Live” tab.
– Kimberley Jones