Book Review: 'The Haunting of Tram Car 015' by P Djèlí Clark

Cover art by Stephan Martiniere

'The Haunting of Tram Car 015' by P Djèlí Clark, is a stand alone story that is also set in the same alternative Egypt of his short story 'A Dead Djinn In Cairo', where the otherworldly and fantastical live and work amongst ordinary humans, with the Ministry of Alchemy, Enchantments and Supernatural Entities keeping watch to deal with any issues between the factions.

Veteran Agent Hamed, and his enthusiastic new rookie partner Agent Onsi, have been assigned to investigate the possession of a tram car. What they think is a run of the mill exorcism becomes a lot more complicated when they discover what has taken roost in the tram car.

I really enjoyed the previous short story, which is also referenced to in this novella, and another visit to this alt-historical Cairo, where the magical and mundane mingle together, is a very welcome return. The world building is full of vivid detail and feels very much alive as the two agents travel around the city on their investigations. And as well as the main case storyline, there's a sub plot of the beginnings of a suffragette movement with the women of Cairo coming together to protest for the right to vote. With plenty going on, the narrative pulls you along at a steady pace, but never once does it feel too much or too dense. It also touches on a few interesting themes, introduces some charming and interesting side characters and expands upon this vibrant and diverse world. 

'The Haunting of Tram Car 015' is a short and fast paced read from an author that is fast becoming a must read with each new story. I hope it's not too long until we get to revisit this world again too. Recommended!

Available from: