Bastard of Istanbul

Discover the captivating world of Bastard of Istanbul by Elif Shafak, a poignant novel that intertwines the lives of women against the backdrop of Istanbul. Published in 2019, this 368-page book delves into the complexities of family, identity, and the weight of history. The story begins on a rainy afternoon when a young woman, only nineteen and unmarried, enters a doctor's office to announce her decision to have an abortion—an act that will irrevocably alter her life.

Fast forward twenty years, and we meet Asya Kazanci, who navigates her existence within a household dominated by strong women, each grappling with the legacy of a mysterious family curse that claims the lives of the Kazanci men in their early forties. Among them is Asya's daring mother, Zeliha, who defies convention by running a tattoo parlour. This richly woven narrative explores themes of feminism, cultural heritage, and the bonds that tie generations together. Don’t miss your chance to experience Elif Shafak's masterful storytelling!