About the Author
Elif Shafak
ISBN 9780241979464
Rs. 880
Penguin Books
10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World
Who it's for: Readers of literary fiction interested in character-driven stories
Tequila Leila, a sex worker in Istanbul, finds her consciousness lingering for ten minutes and thirty-eight seconds after her death. In this brief period, her mind recounts vivid sensory memories – tastes, sights, scents – that trace her life journey from childhood in the Turkish countryside to the vibrant, often harsh, streets of Istanbul. These recollections also reveal the deep bonds she formed with a diverse group of outcast friends, who are now desperately searching for her.Why You Should Read? Explores profound themes of memory, identity, friendship, and marginalization. Offers a unique and powerful narrative perspective on life and mortality. Provides a vivid and empathetic portrayal of Istanbul's social layers and hidden lives. Showcases Elif Shafak's distinctive literary voice and poignant storytelling.
Highlights
- Narrative unfolds in the 10 minutes 38 seconds after the protagonist's death
- Recounts sensory memories: tastes, sights, scents from childhood to Istanbul
- Explores deep bonds with a diverse group of outcast friends
- Set against the vibrant, harsh streets of Istanbul
- Portrays Istanbul's social layers and hidden lives
Themes
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12 detailsAbout the author
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Questions about this book
What is the premise of the book?
The book follows Tequila Leila, a sex worker in Istanbul, whose consciousness lingers for 10 minutes 38 seconds after her death, during which she recalls sensory memories from her life.
What themes does the book explore?
It explores themes of memory, identity, friendship, and marginalization, offering a unique perspective on life and mortality.
What is the setting of the book?
The story is set in Istanbul, Turkey, and also includes flashbacks to the Turkish countryside where the protagonist spent her childhood.
Who is the author?
The author is Elif Shafak, a distinctive literary voice known for poignant storytelling.