The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain - 4 stars (Steeplechase, BWF)

[Joy D]

The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain - 4* - My Review

Published in 1884 and set in pre-Civil War times, this book is one of Mark Twain’s most well-known works, and I first read it long ago. Twain is known for his humor and irony, which shines through in this novel. It is about race and friendship and a young man questioning how to do good in the world, presented as an adventure and tall tale of Huck and Jim escaping their personal cages – Huck as an abused youngster and Jim as a slave trying to rescue his family. Twain portrays a deep friendship between Huck and Jim in the American South at a time when such interracial friendships were considered unacceptable. Jim becomes more of a father figure and role model to Huck than his own abusive stepfather. The only downside for me is the ending. I read it to refresh my memory in anticipation of reading James by Percival Everett, which tells the story from Jim’s perspective. I am glad to have re-read this as an adult and think I appreciated it even more this time around.

PBT Steeplechase - tagged "classics" x204:
https://www.goodreads.com/work/shelve...

PBT April BWF Extra A/T - fits letters, not tag

PBT Comments: Much has been made of the use of the "n" word, but this is clearly a work of social commentary which is critical of racism and slavery.

[NancyJ]

Great review Joy. I like your idea to read the two books as a pairing. I’d like to read more by Percival Everett. I can’t wait to see your review.

[Joy D]

Thanks, Nancy. I figured I would need the refresher since I last read TAoHF in high school, lol.

[Theresa]

I re-read this a couple years ago, just after watching a staged concert version of the Broadway musical based on it, Big River. My prior reading was in 7th Grade I think and boy had I forgotten much! Wonderful book, far more suited to me as an adult than as a kid in junior high school.

[Booknblues]

I love this book, but admit it has been years since I have read it, but I've read it at least 4 times.