10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World by Elif Shafak

“10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World” follows the story of Tequila Leila, a transgender sex worker in Istanbul, who has been murdered and is lying in a morgue. As her brain continues to function for a short period after her death, Leila reflects on her life, recounting her memories and the experiences that shaped her. Through these reflections, the novel explores themes of identity, friendship, and the struggle for acceptance. Shafak weaves a rich tapestry of characters and social issues, offering a poignant and thought-provoking look at the intersections of personal and societal struggles.