In her final moments after death, Tequila Leila’s mind remains alive for 10 minutes and 38 seconds, reliving memories of her childhood, trauma, friendships, and the chosen family that loved her in Istanbul.
10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World explores the final flickers of consciousness of Tequila Leila, a woman whose heart has stopped but whose mind is still alive.
During these last moments, she recalls a life marked by hardship, abuse, courage, and resilience. She also remembers the extraordinary group of outcasts who became her real family in Istanbul — people who refused to let her be forgotten in a society that judged her.
Elif Shafak blends poetry, tragedy, and beauty in a powerful novel about memory, friendship, marginalization, and the human spirit. A heartbreaking and deeply human tribute to those society ignores, and to the power of chosen family.
