Monk Ellison is a novelist known for writing dense, rarely read books. Needing money to take care of his ailing mother, he compromises his artistic integrity (albeit under an alias) and writes a book he loathes: a story of a black, impoverished young man with four kids by four different women and no education. Everett challenges us to really consider whether an author, or even an author’s purpose, has any bearing on a works greatness. Simultaneously, he exams the consequences of experiencing a culture through art. “Erasure” is smart, funny, and a slap in the face for anyone imagining they have any authority over defining the black experience. I’m looking forward to the movie (I love Jeffrey Wright) and can’t wait to dive into Everett’s new book, “James,” which is Huck Finn told from Jim’s point of view. Percival Everett is an American author you should know, and “Erasure” is a fine place to start.