A man has been left terrified after purchasing a second-hand copy of Charles Dickens' A Tale of Two Cities from a jumble sale, claiming the book has brought paranormal activity into his home. The buyer's friend, who made the purchase, discovered two photographs and a drawing tucked inside the novel. One photo was inscribed on the back: 'April 16th, 1967. Picnic At Riverview? Dave+Cheryl'.
Shortly after bringing the book home, the friend began experiencing strange phenomena, including running noises, knocks, and the smell of freshly smoked cigarettes, despite no one in the household smoking. The friend, who has a history of vivid dreams, also reported seeing a man who wished to speak with his mother. The original poster on Reddit questioned whether the book is haunted or if these events are mere coincidences.
Other Reddit users shared similar experiences. One recounted taking a book from an abandoned house, after which they heard knocking on walls, flickering lights in the shower, and felt a presence. The user described feeling someone sit on their bed, causing them to scream and call their roommate. The phenomena ceased after they returned the book.
Another user told of a coworker who received strange sketches from a homeless man and subsequently experienced shadowy figures and depression. The coworker's symptoms improved after discarding the sketches. The original poster has been advised to get rid of the photographs or return them to the seller.