Please join us for a special American Studies Book Talk with

American Studies Faculty Member

Shelley Fisher Fishkin

Joseph S. Atha Professor of Humanities, Professor of English, and Professor (by Courtesy) of African and African American Studies; Director of American studies from 2003-2024

speaking on her book 

Jim: The Life and Afterlives of Huckleberry Finn’s Comrade

Join us in celebrating Professor Shelley Fisher Fishkin’s newly published book, a biography and critical history of one of the most memorable Black characters in American fiction that also tracks his many afterlives in film, from Hollywood to the Soviet Union; in translation around the world; and in American high schools today. 

“She argues that Twain wished to create a figure of creative power—of imagination, bravery, and eloquence—and dramatize the net that slavery cast over him….A powerful work of historical scholarship that brings to life one of American fiction’s most complex creations.” — Kirkus Reviews  

“A captivating narrative about enslavement and racism well beyond the fictional character Jim.” — Faye Dant, founder of Jim’s Journey: The Huck Finn Freedom Center

Monday, May 5th at 4:30 PM

Terrace Room, Margaret Jacks Hall (Bldg. 460)

Co-sponsored by the Department of English and the Department of African and African American Studies

Open to the Public. Please RSVP here to help us plan for catering.