A Review of P. Djèlí Clark’s A Master of Djinn
This winter, I was taking a speculative fiction writing class on GrubStreet, and through the reading assignments, I was introduced to some unfamiliar authors. For one assignment, we had to read the first chapter of P. Djeli Clark’s A Master of Djinn. This is how I first came to read A Master of Djinn and learned of the author, P. Djeli Clark.
Phenderson Djèlí Clark is an American award-winning author of speculative fiction, and I was immediately struck by the brilliance of his world-building. While working on my own short story for the class, I gained a new appreciation for what it takes to create a setting as immersive and believable as Clark’s. His vividly realized world feels alive, and his dynamic, nuanced characters fit so naturally within it. Through his work, and with the help of the class, I learned what truly exceptional world-building entails.
My Goodreads Review
A Master of Djinn by P. Djèlí Clark
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Diving into A Master of Djinn by P. Djèlí Clark, transformed into an audiobook and brought to vivid life by Suehyla El-Attar, offers a journey deserving of an enthusiastic 4.5 stars. This gem melds the intrigue of steampunk with the depth of historical fantasy and wraps it all in a mystery that keeps you hooked, all set against the backdrop of an Egypt that has reclaimed its independence with the aid of djinn magic. The story, centered around the sharp-witted and resilient Agent Fatma el-Sha’arawi, unfolds in a Cairo buzzing with airships and steeped in enchantments, challenging and exploring themes of colonialism, identity, and power. The plot weaves through these complex themes gracefully and keeps you engaged from start to finish. The book is a prime example of speculative fiction at its best.
P. Djèlí Clark’s storytelling prowess is on full display as he crafts a world that’s both fantastical and intimately real, with characters that are as deeply layered as the world they inhabit. The relationship between Fatma and Siti is a highlight, portrayed with a richness that adds emotional depth to the narrative. While the audiobook format adds an extra layer of immersion to the experience, Suehyla El-Attar’s narration perfectly captures the essence of Clark’s characters and the atmospheric depth of Cairo. Her ability to give voice to the diverse cast and the magical ambiance of the setting enriches the story, making the audiobook a compelling way to experience this richly imagined world. A Master of Djinn is a well-told story and an auditory experience that captures the heart and imagination, making it a standout addition to any audiobook library. 4.5 stars rounded up to 5.
View all my reviews
If you’re interested in diving into the magical world of A Master of Djinn by P. Djèlí Clark, you can find it on Amazon or check it out at your local library or online on the Libbyapp. Please note, I’m not an affiliate and don’t earn anything from this—just a fan of the book who wants to make it easier for others to discover Clark’s amazing work.