The Weaver Memorial Lecture: An Evening with Percival Everett

In collaboration with the Duke Common Experience program, the Duke University Libraries will host an evening with Percival Everett, author of "James," winner of the 2024 National Book Award and 2025 Pulitzer Prize.

Everett will discuss his bestselling novel, a satirical reimagining of Mark Twain’s American classic "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn," told from the enslaved character Jim’s point of view. The book was selected as the Duke Common Experience reading for the incoming Class of 2029.

Everett will be joined on stage in conversation with Deborah F. Rutter, former president of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C., and newly appointed Vice Provost for the Arts at Duke.

Copies of "James" will be available for sale at the event, and a book signing with the author will follow the talk. The book is also available in print, e-book, and audiobook formats through the Duke University Libraries and at your local public library.

Co-sponsored by the Office of Undergraduate Education and the Division of Student Affairs. Free and open to the public, but tickets required for entry.