Bastard - Of Istanbul

“The Bastard of Istanbul” has also been recognized for its contribution to the literary landscape of Turkey and beyond. The novel has been translated into numerous languages and has won several awards, including the Prix Méditerranée étranger in 2009.

The story follows Çiçek, a 25-year-old woman from a small town in Anatolia, who travels to Istanbul to work as an au pair for a wealthy family. As she navigates the complexities of city life, Çiçek begins to uncover the secrets of her family’s past, including a long-buried truth about her mother’s relationship with a non-Turkish man. This revelation sets Çiçek on a journey of self-discovery, as she grapples with her own identity and sense of belonging in a society that often prioritizes conformity over individuality. bastard of istanbul

Elif Şafak’s novel, published in 2008, tells the story of a young Turkish woman named Çiçek, who travels to Istanbul in search of her roots and discovers a long-forgotten family secret. The novel explores themes of identity, culture, and belonging, delving into the complexities of Turkish society and the experiences of its protagonists. As she navigates the complexities of city life,