Percival Everett’s critically acclaimed novel *James* has secured yet another prestigious nomination, this time for the PEN/Faulkner Prize for Fiction, per usnews.com. The announcement, made Monday by the PEN/Faulkner Foundation, places Everett’s reimagining of *The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn* among 10 contenders on the long list. The foundation will narrow the field to five finalists in March, with the winner set to receive $15,000 in April.
Everett’s *James* has already claimed top honors, including the National Book Award, the Kirkus Prize, and the Carnegie Medal for Excellence in Fiction. It was also shortlisted for the Booker Prize and remains a finalist for the National Book Critics Circle Award. The novel’s innovative take on Mark Twain’s classic has captivated readers and critics alike, solidifying Everett’s place as one of the most influential voices in contemporary literature.
The PEN/Faulkner long list features a diverse array of literary talent, including Louise Erdrich’s *The Mighty Red*, Rachel Kushner’s *Creation Lake*, and Garth Greenwell’s *Small Rain*. Other notable nominees include Pemi Aguda’s *Ghostroots*, Susan Muaddi Darraj’s *Behind You Is the Sea*, and Ruben Reyes Jr.’s *There Is a Rio Grande in Heaven*.
Established in 1981, the PEN/Faulkner Prize has celebrated literary giants such as Philip Roth, John Edgar Wideman, and Yiyun Li. This year’s competition underscores the enduring power of storytelling and the vibrant diversity of modern fiction.
As the literary world eagerly awaits the finalists, Everett’s *James* continues to shine, proving that reimagined classics can resonate deeply in today’s cultural landscape.
- Featured image by Alberto Pezzali/AP
