THE BOOK FAIR

Review:

The novel details the lives of a Turkish family, the Toprak’s, who immigrate to London, England, in the 1970’s.  The author highlights cultural issues Muslim immigrants face in Western countries.  The author particularly focuses on the struggles women encounter when caught between family dynamics, cultural bonds, and the new society in which they reside. 

 

Adem and Pembe Toprak share an unhappy marriage.  Adem, inherently unhappy as a result of his difficult childhood, marries Pembe, after he learns, according to tradition, he cannot marry, her twin sister, whom he loves.  The family moves to London.  Pembe is expected to follow Islamic tradition; Adem is free to follow his dreams.  Adem’s dreams include other women and gambling.  To support the family, Pembe must work, for which she is blamed for her failing marriage and for not following Muslim tradition.

For these infractions, Pembe’s son, encouraged by an uncle, decides to extract revenge.

 

The story winds in and out of folklore.