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56 pages 1 hour read

10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2019

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Book Brief

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Elif Shafak

10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2019
Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Istanbul • 1990s

Publication Year

2019

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World by Elif Shafak tells the story of Leila, a sex worker in Istanbul, whose brain remains active for 10 minutes and 38 seconds after her murder, during which she recalls significant moments in her life and the friends who meant the most to her. Her friends, defying societal norms, attempt to honor her by reclaiming her body and giving her a proper funeral. The book discusses death, murder, miscarriage, childhood sexual assault, domestic violence, ableism, and other sensitive subjects.

Melancholic

Contemplative

Emotional

Nostalgic

Mysterious

Reviews & Readership

4.2

77,568 ratings

79%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World by Elif Shafak captivates with its lyrical prose and profound exploration of memory, trauma, and resilience. Critics praise the richly drawn characters and evocative depiction of Istanbul. Some feel the narrative falters with pacing and predictability. Overall, it's a poignant, thought-provoking novel.

Who should read this

Who Should Read 10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World?

Readers who appreciate profound narratives set against rich cultural backdrops will enjoy 10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World by Elif Shafak. Fans of Khaled Hosseini's The Kite Runner and Arundhati Roy's The God of Small Things will find Shafak's exploration of memory, identity, and societal issues compelling and thought-provoking.

4.2

77,568 ratings

79%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Character List

Tequila Leila

The protagonist, nicknamed for her work as a sex worker in Istanbul, who reflects on her life experiences and relationships during the moments after her death. Raised in a conservative Turkish family, she faced significant personal challenges and maintained close connections with her friends.

A transgender woman from Anatolia and one of Leila's closest friends, known for her determination and leadership within their friend group. She plays a crucial role in ensuring that Leila receives a proper farewell after her death.

Leila’s childhood friend from Van who is known for unintentionally undermining his own life. He plays a supportive role, helping Leila escape her hometown and later contributing to the events following her death.

Originally from a Lebanese mountain village, she works as a housekeeper in Istanbul and is deeply religious. She provides a sense of reason within Leila’s circle of friends and demonstrates deep loyalty to them.

A singer from Mardin who found solace in her friendship with Leila after fleeing an abusive marriage. Known for her beautiful singing, she stands by her friends and supports plans to honor Leila after her passing.

A woman from Somalia who found herself in Istanbul after seeking asylum and was forced into exploitative circumstances. Despite her struggles, she remains hopeful and is part of the efforts to honor Leila’s memory.

Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Istanbul • 1990s

Publication Year

2019

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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