A review by carlaaysem
The Bastard of Istanbul by Elif Shafak

challenging emotional hopeful inspiring reflective sad slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

Elif Safak writes about Istanbul and its women with so much love and accuracy. I cried and laughed and cried while reading the Bastard of Istanbul. Safak also represents  history with a great deal of nuance, and highlights the importance of peace and sisterhood despite the many voices in the world urging conflict. Overall, a beautiful story about being stuck in the past while wishing to erase it, and processing generational trauma. A must read for everyone. I definitely think this book went over a lot of Westerners’ heads, so interpret the majority of reviews with this in mind. 
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