Shafak has published thirteen books, nine of which are novels. She
writes fiction in both Turkish and English. Shafak blends Western and
Eastern traditions of storytelling, bringing out the myriad stories of
women, minorities, immigrants, subcultures, youth and global souls.
Her work draws on diverse cultures and literary traditions, as well as
deep interest in history, philosophy, Sufism, oral culture, and cultural
politics. Shafak’s writing breaks down categories, clichés, and
cultural ghettoes. She also has a keen eye for black humor.
Shafak's first novel, Pinhan (The Mystic) was awarded the "Rumi
Prize" in 1998, which is given to the best work in mystical literature
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Le portrait magazine