The James Panel event, Co-Sponsored by Contra Costa Library, located at the Los Medanos College Recital Hall was held in preparation of Percival Everett visiting LMC campus Nov. 8. As students were settling down, small sheets of paper were placed before hand on all seats, this allowed curious students to write down any questions they may have during the event, about the book or anything else they wanted to add about the ongoing discussions.
The Panel was moderated by Honors program director Jennifer Saito and included LMC staff, Librarian Cameron Bluford, Ethnic Studies Professor Adrianna Simone, English Professor Alex Sterling, English Professor Tess Caldwell and History Professor Russell Weber.
Saito begins explaining that the book “James,” written by Percival Everett, is a retelling of Mark Twain’s “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn”, with the change that the story is now told from the perspective of the side character named Jim, who has been developed into James.
Bluford begins by emphasizing the importance of pursuing knowledge from multiple sources and viewpoints, and encourages students to explore and develop their own ideas. “I think it’s important to keep that in mind and to make people aware that we need to make actual real history public because if you don’t know your history, then you’re doomed to repeat it,” Russell adds that when going through a novel, you should go into detail in the research and that one of the remarkable things that literature does is in helping to tell emotional truths rather than focusing solely on facts.
Saito addresses the audience’s concerns about going through a book that trudges over sensitive topics or any reader who might be dismissive of the novel, but assures that it uplifts the intellect of the people who had to pretend to be less than to survive, its importance to our history and to be able to have those difficult conversations.
Simone notes the uncomfortable feeling and asks for the audience to “Sit in that feeling, why are you reacting this way? What makes you afraid to face the trauma?” and to reflect on that feeling, since in this book, you witness the inner workings of a complex character, showing that James is reclaiming his power through knowledge, that he is stronger than the circumstance he’s in. And that, though this is his reality, if you shy away from those topics, you may miss the brilliance that is the book.
Bluford mentions how the ability to read is something that cannot be taken away from James; they tried to rob him of humanity, but the power of reading is a subversive experience that education and a degree can’t be taken away from you.
Up until now, the sheets of paper were being collected and brought up to Simone. One of the submitted questions asked whether James is a book recommended for all ethnicities or especially to African-Americans. Bluford acknowledges that while the book centers on those specific experiences, the message is universal. “It’s a book for all of us to read. I think we all need to learn about this history and what has happened and not shy away from that.”
The panel came to a close as Caldwell shared their thoughts, advising members of the audience to continue to read often. “Reading is resistance. It’s just part of being human,” she said. “It makes us question authority, takes the veil of ignorance, it makes us critical thinkers and independent.”
Students who attended the panel as part of their classes or just because they were interested in the event were free to share their thoughts. “I thought that the way the book talks about code switching was interesting,” said Charlotte Johnson, “And how that’s changed over time.”
The professors helped shed light on those topics by adding their expertise from their respective fields.
“I thought it went really well. I liked all the points that the panelists brought up. I think you know, James’ [story] is one that really needs to be read and understood,” said Isaac Kinney, LMC student. “Passing and trauma and intellect, code switching, I think all those are really key elements of the book. It’s good that we had the time to be able to discuss it.”
Student David Ruttoh felt that the event was very impactful to watch and was glad that they were able to see their professor’s perspectives on the novel.
“Mrs. Simone, she’s my teacher, so I’m very happy to see her. She’s a great teacher by the way,” said Ruttoh. “It’s powerful to be here, to see this,” Ruttoh added, “As a black student, my opinion matters.”
The event was broadcast live and is available for replay at www.youtube.com/@theccclib
