Jim: The Life and Afterlives of Huckleberry Finn's Comrade.

The article focuses on Shelley Fisher Fishkin's 2025 book *Life and Afterlives of Huckleberry Finn's Comrade*, which reevaluates the character Jim in Mark Twain's *Adventures of Huckleberry Finn*. Fishkin argues that Twain intentionally portrayed Jim as a complex, intelligent man constrained by slavery, challenging longstanding criticisms that Jim embodies racial stereotypes. The book situates Jim within historical and cultural contexts, examines debates over his language and representation, and explores his portrayals in film, theater, and translation. Fishkin also offers practical guidance for educators on teaching the novel thoughtfully, emphasizing the importance of understanding Twain's nuanced intentions and Jim's heroism.