Turkish Kaleidoscope: Fractured Lives in a Time of Violence

Turkish Kaleidoscope is a powerful graphic novel that explores Turkey's descent into political violence in the 1970s through the experiences of four students on opposing sides of the conflict. It follows the lives of Faruk, Orhan, Nuray, and Yunus as they navigate a society torn apart by violent political factions, falling in love, raising families, and struggling to get on with their lives. The novel is inspired by Jenny White's own experiences as a student in Turkey during this period and reveals how violent factionalism has its own emotional and cultural logic that defies ideological explanations.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 120 pages
Publication date: 04 May 2021
Publisher: Princeton University Press

Turkish Kaleidoscope is a powerful graphic novel that delves into Turkey's descent into political violence during the 1970s through the experiences of four students on opposing sides of the conflict. Set in 1975, Turkey is on the brink of civil war, with Faruk and Orhan coming from conservative shopkeeping families in eastern Anatolia, while Nuray and Yunus are from villagers who have migrated to the provincial city. While attending medical school in Ankara, Faruk recruits Orhan into a right-wing nationalist group, while Nuray and Yunus join the left. Against the backdrop of escalating violence, the four students fall in love, experience heartbreak, get married, raise families, and struggle to navigate their lives. However, the consequences of their decisions will haunt them throughout their lives, as their children begin the story anew, skewed through the kaleidoscope of historical events.

Inspired by Jenny White's personal experiences as a student in Turkey during this tumultuous period and original oral histories of Turks who lived through it, Turkish Kaleidoscope offers a unique perspective on the emotional and cultural logic of violent factionalism. The novel explores how political ideologies can be overshadowed by the personal experiences and emotions of individuals caught up in the conflict. It sheds light on the complexities of love, loyalty, and sacrifice in a society torn apart by political divisions.

Through its compelling characters and rich storytelling, Turkish Kaleidoscope provides a powerful exploration of the human cost of political violence. It serves as a reminder of the importance of empathy, understanding, and dialogue in navigating the complexities of divided societies. Whether you are interested in history, politics, or just a compelling story, this graphic novel is a must-read for anyone seeking to gain a deeper understanding of the 1970s in Turkey and the ongoing challenges of political polarization.

Weight: 454g
Dimension: 254 x 179 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780691205199