From Publishers Weekly
A Turkish poet who spent 12 years as a political exile in Germany witnesses firsthand the clash between radical Islam and Western ideals in this enigmatically beautiful novel. Ka’s reasons for visiting the small Turkish town of Kars are twofold: curiosity about the rash of suicides by young girls in the town and a hope to reconnect with “the beautiful Ipek,” whom he knew as a youth. But Kars is a tangle of poverty-stricken families, Kurdish separatists, political Islamists (including Ipek’s spirited sister Kadife) and Ka finds himself making compromises with all in a desperate play for his own happiness. Ka encounters government officials, idealistic students, leftist theater groups and the charismatic and perhaps terroristic Blue while trying to convince Ipek to return to Germany with him; each conversation pits warring ideologies against each other and against Ka’s own weary melancholy. Pamuk himself becomes an important character, as he describes (more…)

This is a story of love, perseverance, and success in overcoming autism with a natural and common sense approach. It is the true account of a remarkable young man who, despite the numerous obstacles and challenges blocking his path, has developed to the point that he can now enjoy a normal life. It will warm your heart to follow the progress of a child with serious disabilities and watch him blossom into a very productive and respected citizen of the community. Jacob is a fabulous person. You may aspire to be like him once you get to know him.

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