Plot Summary

Memed, My Hawk

Yashar Kemal
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Memed, My Hawk

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1955

Book Brief

Yashar Kemal

Memed, My Hawk

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1955
Book Details
Pages

392

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Turkey • Early 20th century

Publication Year

1955

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

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Super Short Summary

Memed, My Hawk by Yashar Kemal tells the story of Memed, a young boy from the village of Deyirmenoluk in Anatolia, who battles against the local tyrant, Agha Abdi, as he seeks freedom and a better life. With support from his mother and later his lover, Hatche, Memed faces numerous trials, including brutal punishment and relentless pursuit. His journey leads him to join a group of brigands, where he rises as a leader, determined to seek justice and avenge the wrongs committed by Abdi. Triggering topics include physical abuse, imprisonment, and violence.

Mysterious

Gritty

Suspenseful

Emotional

Adventurous

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Memed, My Hawk by Yashar Kemal is praised for its vivid storytelling and rich depiction of Turkish rural life, captivating readers with its blend of folklore and social commentary. Critics admire Kemal's realistic characters and narrative style. However, some find the pacing slow and the plot predictable. Overall, it is esteemed for cultural insight and literary merit despite minor flaws.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Memed, My Hawk?

Readers who enjoy tales of rebellion, rich cultural settings, and complex characters will find Memed, My Hawk by Yashar Kemal captivating. Comparable to Khaled Hosseini's The Kite Runner and Gabriel García Márquez's One Hundred Years of Solitude, this novel appeals to those interested in social justice and epic storytelling.

Book Details
Pages

392

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Turkey • Early 20th century

Publication Year

1955

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

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