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“Just because you think it’s safe here, it doesn’t mean this is the right place for you, her heart countered. Sometimes where you feel most safe is where you least belong.��

Another novel by this author that is absolutely sublime! ��10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World�� by Elif Shafak is an exquisite, heart-wrenching exploration of memory, friendship, and the indomitable spirit of a woman whose life defies the margins of society. Set in the vibrant and tumultuous city of Istanbul, the novel unfurls in the final moments of Tequila Leila’s life, capturing her memories in the precious seconds before her consciousness fades.

The strength of 10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World lies in Shafak's signature writing style and rich, evocative prose. The narrative structure, which delves into Leila’s past through her fragmented, yet vivid memories, creates a deeply immersive experience. Shafak paints Istanbul with vibrant, sensory detail, from the bustling streets to the hidden corners, infusing the city with a life and character of its own. As Leila recalls the significant moments and people who shaped her, readers are drawn into a poignant tapestry of love, loss, and resilience.

In this deeply moving and thought-provoking novel, Elif Shafak balances moments of profound sorrow with glimmers of hope and humanity. Leila’s story, told with compassion and insight, illuminates the lives of those often overlooked by society. The novel’s exploration of themes such as identity, marginalization, and the enduring power of friendship resonates deeply, offering a rich and layered reading experience. The theme of found family gives the novel an uplifting and positive tone, despite all the trauma the characters go through. Elif Shafak is becoming one of my favourite writers.