Corpus. Mentem. Anima.
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Title: The Architect's Apprentice
Author: Elif Shafak
Edition: Uncorrected Proof Copy, ARC
Provenance: Rare copy
Format: Paperback
Date Published: 2014
Publisher: Viking
Description:
Embark on a vibrant journey into 16th-century Istanbul with this rich and evocative historical novel from Elif Shafak. The story follows the extraordinary journey of Jahan, a young stowaway and elephant handler who arrives in the city with his beloved white elephant, Chota. He quickly becomes an apprentice to the Chief Royal Architect, Mimar Sinan. Together with Sinan, Jahan travels through the Ottoman Empire, constructing magnificent mosques, bridges, and palaces, witnessing both the splendour and the brutality of the era. However, he also encounters jealous rivals, dangerous intrigues, and forbidden passions. Spanning four decades, this beautifully imagined tale explores themes of love, art, architecture, loyalty, and freedom, weaving a captivating narrative rich in historical detail and unforgettable characters. This poignant and often humorous literary novel is perfect for readers who appreciate historical fiction set in exotic locations, epic storytelling, and novels that transport them into different cultures and times. This special uncorrected proof copy is a unique collector's item for fans of Elif Shafak's distinctive literary style and those keen to own a piece of the book's publishing journey.
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