The Library is excited to announce that the 2025 Read Contra Costa book is “James” by Percival Everett.
Everett's novel, which won both the Pulitzer Prize and the National Book Award for fiction this year, is a powerful retelling of Mark Twain’s “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.” The story is told from the perspective of Jim, an enslaved man who runs away after he discovers he's about to be sold and separated from his family.
Read Contra Costa is an annual event that brings the community together through the shared experience of reading and discussing the same book. The program runs from Tuesday, September 2, through Saturday, November 8.
"The power of a community read is in its ability to bring people together through a shared narrative, and 'James' by Percival Everett is the perfect book to spark that connection," said County Librarian Alison McKee. "This novel can serve as a catalyst for important dialogue. We believe its themes will resonate with readers across our county, and we look forward to the rich and meaningful discussions that will follow."
Join us by reading “James” and sharing your thoughts. You can find the book in hardback, eBook, and eAudiobook formats.
Look for upcoming announcements about special events related to Read Contra Costa. Staff booklists and information on finding local book clubs will be available at ccclib.org beginning September 2.
This year, the Contra Costa County Library is proud to partner with Los Medanos College and the Richmond Public Library to bring this program to the community.
For more information about how to participate through the Richmond Public Library, visit richmondlibrary.org beginning September 2.