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The Bastard of Istanbul

By Elif Shafak
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Check link for latest rating. ( 62,579 ratings, 6,560 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Bastard of Istanbul by Elif Shafak weaves together the lives of two families, one in Istanbul and the other in the United States, who are connected by a secret from the past. Through the eyes of the novel's diverse characters, it explores themes of identity, heritage, and the lasting impact of historical events. The story artfully intertwines contemporary life with cultural and familial complexities.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this beautifully woven tale if you are intrigued by family sagas that bridge generations and cultures. It offers a rich tapestry of Istanbul's history and dives into themes of identity, secrets, and the complexity of heritage, all presented with Elif Shafak's signature poetic prose.

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One rainy afternoon in Istanbul, a woman walks into a doctor's surgery. 'I need to have an abortion', she announces. She is nineteen years old and unmarried. What happens that afternoon will change her life. Twenty years later, Asya Kazanci lives with her extended family in Istanbul.

One rainy afternoon in Istanbul a woman walks into a doctor's surgery. 'I want an abortion', she announces. She is nineteen years old, and unmarried. What happens that afternoon is to change her life, and the lives of everyone around her.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

A violent secret that hides beneath the streets of Istanbul threatens the peace of two interwoven families.

One rainy afternoon in Istanbul, a woman walks into a doctor's surgery. "I want an abortion," she announces. She is nineteen years old and unmarried. What happens that afternoon is to change her life and the lives of everyone around her.

Twenty years later, Asya Kazanci lives with her extended family in Istanbul. Due to a mysterious family curse, all the men die by age 41, so it is a house of women, among them her beautiful, rebellious mother, Zeliha, clairvoyant Auntie Banu, and bar-brawl widow, Auntie Cevriye. But when Asya's Armenian-American cousin Armanoush comes to stay, long-hidden family secrets and Turkey's turbulent past begin to emerge.

The Bastard of Istanbul by Elif Shafak is a compelling exploration of familial ties, cultural heritage, and the enduring legacy of the past.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Bastard of Istanbul by Elif Shafak is widely praised for its ambition and vivid characterisation, reflecting the complexity of Istanbul itself. Reviewers laud its magical and breathtaking narrative, particularly noting the surprising twists at the end. The novel has been recognised for its emotional depth and exploration of significant moral themes, showcasing Shafak’s artistry and passion. It is described as both entertaining and insightful, blending a rich, lively story with a touch of humour and cultural insight.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780241972908

Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 30 April 2015

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Penguin Books Ltd

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 23.0mm

Width: 128.0mm

Height: 197.0mm

Weight: 257g

Pages: 368

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About the Author

Elif Shafak is the acclaimed author of nine novels including The Bastard of Istanbul and Honour, and is the most widely read female writer in Turkey. Her work has been translated into over forty languages and she regularly contributes to publications including The New York Times, Guardian and Time magazine. Elif has been longlisted for the Orange Prize, the Baileys Prize and the IMPAC Dublin Award, and shortlisted for the Independent Foreign Fiction Prize. She lives in London and can be found at www.elifshafak.com.

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