P. Djèlí Clark is an American author known for his speculative fiction and fantasy stories that often revolve around steampunk and alternate history themes. He has written several books and short stories that have garnered critical acclaim for their vivid world-building and unique storytelling.
P. Djèlí Clark Books in Order
- Ring Shout
- A Master of Djinn (Dead Djinn Universe, #1)
- A Dead Djinn in Cairo (Dead Djinn Universe, #0.1)
- The Haunting of Tram Car 015 (Dead Djinn Universe, #0.3)
- The Black God’s Drums
- The Angel of Khan el-Khalili (Dead Djinn Universe, #0.2)
- The Secret Lives of the Nine Negro Teeth of George Washington
- Abeni’s Song
- Fantasy’s Othering Fetish
- Les tambours du dieu noir
Synopsis of P. Djèlí Clark Books in Order
Ring Shout
In the book “Ring Shout” by P. Djèlí Clark, set in 1922, the Ku Klux Klan has channeled dark magic to increase their power. A secret society of resistance fighters, including the sharpshooting swordswoman Maryse, the former slave Sadie, and the mysterious outsider Chef, are determined to stop the Klan from achieving their ultimate goal of summoning a demonic entity. As the three women confront the dark forces threatening their community, they encounter shape-shifting monsters and are forced to rely on their wit, courage, and magical powers to defeat the Klansmen and protect the world from evil.
The story weaves in elements of African folklore and history, with the characters drawing on their heritage and ancestral knowledge to combat the supernatural threats that plague their world. The novel tackles themes of racism, oppression, and the resilience of marginalized communities, offering a gripping blend of historical fantasy and social commentary. With its engaging plot and dynamic characters, “Ring Shout” is an action-packed adventure that sheds light on the enduring legacy of racism and the power of resistance in the face of adversity.
P. Djèlí Clark’s “Ring Shout” has received critical acclaim for its inventive storytelling, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes. The book has been praised for its unique blend of historical fiction and fantasy, offering a fresh perspective on the struggle against racism and the legacy of slavery in the United States. With its vivid world-building and rich cultural references, “Ring Shout” is a must-read for fans of speculative fiction and historical fantasy.
A Master of Djinn (Dead Djinn Universe, #1)
“A Master of Djinn” is a steampunk fantasy novel set in an alternate history Cairo in 1912. The story follows Fatma el-Sha’arawi, a special investigator for the Ministry of Alchemy, Enchantments, and Supernatural Entities. When a mysterious figure begins killing off members of a secret brotherhood dedicated to preventing the resurrection of a powerful and ancient djinn, Fatma must navigate a complex web of magical and political intrigue to uncover the truth. Along the way, she teams up with her new partner, the rookie agent Hadia, and enlists the help of a charming and rakish dervish named Siti.
As Fatma delves deeper into the case, she uncovers a plot that threatens not only the delicate balance of power in the city, but the very fabric of reality itself. With the help of her allies, Fatma must race against time to unravel the mystery and prevent an apocalyptic event that could plunge the world into chaos. As she navigates the dangers of a supernatural bazaar, a hidden library, and the machinations of powerful cabals, Fatma must confront not only the enemies of the Ministry, but also her own past and the secrets she has been keeping from her colleagues.
“A Master of Djinn” is a thrilling blend of historical fantasy, steampunk, and mystery, with a feisty and resourceful heroine who must confront her own demons while facing the supernatural threats to her city. With its richly imagined world, diverse cast of characters, and fast-paced plot, the book offers a riveting and immersive reading experience that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
A Dead Djinn in Cairo (Dead Djinn Universe, #0.1)
“A Dead Djinn in Cairo” is a novella set in an alternate 1912 Cairo, where djinns and other supernatural creatures are part of everyday life. The story follows Special Investigator Fatma el-Sha’arawi as she investigates the mysterious death of a djinn. As she delves into the case, she uncovers a plot that could have far-reaching consequences for the city and its inhabitants. Fatma must navigate a world of magic, politics, and revolution to solve the case and prevent further chaos.
The novella is a fast-paced mix of mystery, fantasy, and steampunk, with a vibrant setting that blends the historical and the fantastic. The author, P. Djèlí Clark, weaves a compelling narrative that combines elements of Egyptian mythology and folklore with a unique vision of an alternate history. The book also explores themes of colonialism, power, and identity, as the characters grapple with the complexities of a society in the midst of change.
Clark’s writing is rich and evocative, drawing readers into a vivid and immersive world that is both familiar and strange. “A Dead Djinn in Cairo” offers a tantalizing glimpse into the author’s “Dead Djinn Universe,” setting the stage for more stories in this captivating and inventive world.
The Haunting of Tram Car 015 (Dead Djinn Universe, #0.3)
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The Black God’s Drums
“The Black God’s Drums” is a captivating steampunk fantasy novel set in an alternate New Orleans in the late 19th century. The story follows a young girl named Creeper who is an orphan and a street urchin with a mysterious power. She becomes entangled in a plot involving a dangerous weapon that could change the course of the Civil War. As she navigates the intricate web of political intrigue and rebellion, Creeper discovers the existence of a powerful entity known as the Black God and must decide how to use her abilities for the greater good.
P. Djèlí Clark weaves together a rich tapestry of historical and fantastical elements, creating a vibrant and immersive world that is both familiar and otherworldly. The novel explores themes of power, resistance, and sacrifice as Creeper and her friends risk everything to prevent the weapon from falling into the wrong hands. With its compelling characters, fast-paced action, and thought-provoking commentary on race and politics, “The Black God’s Drums” is a thrilling and thought-provoking read that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
With its vivid prose and imaginative storytelling, “The Black God’s Drums” is a must-read for fans of steampunk, fantasy, and historical fiction. P. Djèlí Clark’s masterful blend of genres and compelling narrative make this novel a standout in the world of speculative fiction. Whether readers are familiar with New Orleans history or not, they will find themselves captivated by the magic and adventure of this spellbinding tale.
The Angel of Khan el-Khalili (Dead Djinn Universe, #0.2)
“The Angel of Khan el-Khalili” is a fantasy novella set in an alternate version of early 20th century Cairo. The story follows Fatma, a special investigator with the Ministry of Alchemy, Enchantments and Supernatural Entities in the world of marids, djinn, and other magical beings. Fatma is tasked with solving a mysterious case involving the disappearance of an ancient artifact, which leads her to the bustling marketplace of Khan el-Khalili.
As Fatma delves deeper into the case, she uncovers a web of political intrigue, magical conspiracies, and underworld dealings. She teams up with Siti, a cafe owner and an unlikely ally, to navigate the treacherous streets of Cairo and uncover the truth behind the artifact’s disappearance. The novella combines elements of steampunk, magic, and historical fiction to create a rich and vibrant world that explores themes of power, colonialism, and resistance.
P. Djèlí Clark, known for his captivating storytelling and intricate world-building, delivers a compelling tale that immerses readers in a mesmerizing alternate Cairo. With its engaging characters and intricate plot, “The Angel of Khan el-Khalili” offers a thrilling and thought-provoking read that will leave readers eagerly anticipating more stories set in the Dead Djinn Universe.
The Secret Lives of the Nine Negro Teeth of George Washington
“The Secret Lives of the Nine Negro Teeth of George Washington” by P. Djèlí Clark is a speculative fiction novella that presents a unique and imaginative reimagining of American history. The story follows a group of enslaved people who possess magical powers, known as the “teeth,” which were taken from them by George Washington. The novella explores themes of power, oppression, and resistance, as the characters embark on a quest to reclaim their stolen teeth and free themselves from the grip of their captors.
Set in an alternate version of 19th century America, the novella blends historical fiction with fantasy elements, offering a thought-provoking and engaging read. Clark’s writing is rich and evocative, bringing to life a world where magic and history intertwine in surprising and compelling ways. The author skillfully uses the fantastical elements of the story to shed light on the real-world complexities of slavery and colonialism, creating a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
“The Secret Lives of the Nine Negro Teeth of George Washington” is a powerful and imaginative work that offers a fresh perspective on a familiar historical period. Through its compelling characters and inventive storytelling, the novella presents a thought-provoking exploration of the legacy of slavery and the resilience of the human spirit. Clark’s unique blend of history and fantasy makes for a captivating read that is sure to resonate with readers looking for a fresh take on American history and its enduring impact.
Abeni’s Song
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Fantasy’s Othering Fetish
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Les tambours du dieu noir
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About P. Djèlí Clark
Phenderson Djèlí Clark is a highly acclaimed author known for his novel A Master of Djinn, as well as the award-winning novellas Ring Shout, The Black God’s Drums, and The Haunting of Tram Car 015. His short stories have been featured in online publications such as Tor.com, Heroic Fantasy Quarterly, and Beneath Ceaseless Skies, as well as in print anthologies like Griots and Hidden Youth. Connect with him on Twitter at @pdjeliclark and check out his blog, The Disgruntled Haradrim.
In conclusion, P. Djèlí Clark has established himself as a prominent voice in the speculative fiction genre with his African-inspired steampunk and fantasy novels. Through his works, Clark not only entertains readers with gripping storytelling and vivid world-building, but also offers thought-provoking ideological lessons on power, resistance, and colonialism. His ability to blend historical elements with imaginative narratives creates a unique and compelling reading experience, making his books a must-read for fans of speculative fiction.
FAQs about author P. Djèlí Clark
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