The Pulitzer citation called James an “accomplished reconsideration” that illustrates “the absurdity of racial supremacy and provide a new take on the search for family and freedom.”

Everett’s novel was honored at the 2025 awards, along with other books in the categories of fiction, general nonfiction, memoir, poetry, history and biography.

James,” by Percival Everett won the fiction prize, and Jason Roberts received the biography prize for “Every Living Thing.”