Jap Herron: A Novel Written from the Ouija Board

"Jap Herron: A Novel Written from the Ouija Board" by Emily Grant Hutchings is a novel that was produced in the early 20th century. This unique piece of fiction involves a compelling narrative that combines storytelling with psyschical themes, portraying messages allegedly transmitted from the legendary author Mark Twain after his death. The book centers on the character Jap Herron, a young boy with a challenging upbringing, who seeks acceptance and purpose within a community filled with various colorful characters. The opening portion introduces readers to the framework of how the novel came to be, with Hutchings recounting her experiences with a psychical research society where she becomes a medium for spirit messages from Twain. The narrative reveals Twain's creative process as he communicates through the planchette on a Ouija board, outlining the story of Jap Herron and dictating the characters and plot specifics. Through this dialogue, readers are teased with minor character insights and hints of humor that echo Twain’s wit, as well as the main character Jap's ambitions, fears, and the socio-economic backdrop of his life in Bloomtown. This intriguing blend of spirits, storytelling, and socio-cultural commentary creates a memorable reading experience that captivates both intrigue and nostalgia for Twain’s literary style.