10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World

10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World by Elif Shafak is a poignant and evocative novel that explores the life and death of Tequila Leila, a transgender sex worker in Istanbul. After her death, her mind remains active for 10 minutes and 38 seconds, during which she relives pivotal moments of her life and recalls the memories of her five close friends. The novel delves into themes of friendship, identity, love, and belonging, while also addressing issues of gender, marginalization, and social injustice. With rich storytelling and deep emotional resonance, Shafak crafts a vivid narrative about the search for connection in a complex world.

Author(s): Elif Shafak