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.

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.

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

- 10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World by Elif Shafak was shortlisted for the 2019 Booker Prize, bringing international attention to the author's portrayal of Istanbul.
- Shafak's novel explores themes of memory and marginalization through a unique narrative structure that unfolds in the protagonist's mind during the last moments of consciousness.
- The title refers to the scientific claim that the brain remains active for a short period after the heart stops, allowing a novel exploration of the moments after death.

**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.

**Nostalgia Nalan**  
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.

**Sabotage Sinan**  
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.

**Zaynab122**  
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.

**Hollywood Humeyra**  
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.

**Jameelah**  
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.

Elif Shafak

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore 10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read 10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World | SuperSummary

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore 10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

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

Reading Age

Book Details