Critic’s Choice

Lecture

Critic's Choice James

Elaine Newton, Professor Emeritus of Humanities at York University, Toronto

The book to be discussed is
James
by Percival Everett

James is author Percival Everett’s reimagining of Mark Twain’s beloved tale The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn … but with a twist. This time, the story is told from the perspective of Jim, the enslaved man who travels alongside Huck. Now called James, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery, navigating a world marked by cruelty and hypocrisy. Everett infuses this retelling with his trademark wit and an unflinching look at the cruel realities of slavery. Join Elaine Newton as she delves into this provocative narrative that reexamines an American classic, exploring themes of identity, history and the subversion of stereotypes.

This presentation is part of Elaine Newton's Critic’s Choice series.

Please note: The Thursday lecture will be held in Daniels Pavilion. The Saturday lecture will be held in Hayes Hall.

Elaine Newton

Elaine Newton

Elaine Newton is professor emeritus of humanities at York University, Toronto, Canada. She has taught courses in literary theory and methodology, contemporary fiction, psychology and literature and archetypal criticism. Elaine was one of the founders of York University’s advising program and its much-emulated faculty of education. She is a recipient of the province of Ontario’s Teaching Award in recognition of excellence in university teaching and, in 1984, received a citation as Toronto’s Outstanding Professor. In 1996, she was the recipient of the university-wide Teaching Award. She has held appointments as professor of literature at Carlton University, Ottawa; University of Cape Town, South Africa; University of Sydney, Australia, Victoria University and the University of Otago, New Zealand. She has lectured throughout Canada and the U.S., London, Hong Kong, Zurich and Caracas. In 1992, she was a member of the faculty of the University of Pittsburgh’s Semester-at-Sea. Elaine retains an abiding commitment to adult education and the role of the university in the wider community.

For over 40 years, Elaine has planned and conducted adult education courses throughout North America. This is the 35th anniversary season of Critic’s Choice literature series and the 29th year she has presented Four O’clock at the Movies. She also initiated and taught the pioneering Artis—Naples seminar discussion program, the Questors, for 12 years. Elaine has worked as a book critic for Toronto’s The Globe and Mail, been a special consultant to the Ontario Library Association, led movie and theater discussions and served as a consultant to the North York Board of Education. She continues to conduct an annual lecture series at the Toronto Public Library and makes frequent guest appearances on TV and radio. Elaine has an enthusiastic and loyal following each season as she offers insightful commentary about contemporary fiction and motion pictures.