The Bastard of Istanbul is a novel by Elif Shafak that explores the complexities of identity, family secrets, and cultural heritage through the intertwined lives of an Armenian-American woman and a Turkish family in Istanbul.
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Book Blurb
As an Armenian American living in San Francisco, Armanoush feels like part of her identity is missing and that she must make a journey back to the past, to Turkey, in order to start living her life. Asya is a nineteen-year-old woman living in an extended all-female household in Istanbul who loves Jonny Cash and the French existentialists.
The Bastard of Istanbul tells the story of their two families–and a secret connection linking them to a violent event in the history of their homeland.
About the Author
Elif Shafak is an award-winning, New York Times bestselling author. Her works have been translated into 55 languages and are hugely popular across the world.
Shafak holds a PhD in political science and she has taught at various universities in Turkey, the US and the UK. She has also taught at St Anne’s College, Oxford University, where she is an honorary fellow.
When you think of Elif Shakak books, you’re probably most likely to think of her bestselling fiction novels but she has also written nonfiction books.
What to read next
If you enjoy books by Elif Shafak, you may also enjoyed books by Christy Lefteri such as Songbirds and The Book of Fire.
Has Elif Shafak written any other novels?
Elif Shafak has written several other novels. I have a complete list of her books on the list below if you’re interested in finding out more.
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