The Silence of Scheherazade

In the historical city of Smyrna, born to an opium-dazed mother, Scheherazade is a story of love, emotions, and identities influenced by socio-political events of a lifetime. This novel is a must-read for those who enjoy literature.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 512 pages
Publication date: 03 February 2022
Publisher: Head of Zeus

In the bustling city of Smyrna, nestled within the heart of the Ottoman Empire, a remarkable tale unfolds. Born to an opium-addled mother, Scheherazade emerges into the world amidst a backdrop of ancient grandeur. Meanwhile, on the same fateful day, an Indian spy sets sail into Smyrna, carrying a secret mission entrusted by the British Empire. Seventeen years later, as he bids farewell to the city, the scent of kerosene and smoke fills the air, signaling the impending destruction that would engulf it and its people.

This unforgettable novel weaves the intertwined destinies of a Levantine, a Greek, a Turkish, and an Armenian family, offering a poignant glimpse into a city and culture that have long since vanished from the annals of time. Elif Shafak's writing is a testament to her fierce intelligence, exquisite craftsmanship, and heartbreaking beauty. Utterly delightful, Buki Papillon praises this rich tale of love and loss for giving voice to the silenced and infusing their histories with a melody of emotion. Maureen Freely, Chair of English PEN, hails it as a must-read, while Ayse Arman of Hu¨rriyet describes it as a symphony of literature. Açik Radyo lauds Defne Suman as a masterful storyteller, adept at exploring how love, emotions, and identities are shaped by the sweeping socio-political events of a lifetime.

Cumhuriyet Newspaper applauds the novel's wonderfully braided narrative, set in the enchanting city of Smyrna, unfolding in luminous prose. Lou Ureneck, the author of Smyrna, September 1922, praises it as a captivating story of family secrets, seamlessly interwoven within the magical tapestry of Smyrna.

Weight: 350g
Dimension: 129 x 199 x 35 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800246973