The Architect's Apprentice: A Novel

A colorful, magical tale set during the height of the Ottoman Empire, from the acclaimed author of The Island of Missing Trees (a Reese's Book Club Pick) Chosen for Camilla, Duchess of Cornwalls Reading Room Book Club In this novel, Turkeys preeminent female writer spins an epic tale spanning nearly a century in the life of the Ottoman Empire. In 1540, twelve-year-old Jahan arrives in Istanbul. As an animal tamer in the sultans menagerie, he looks after the exceptionally smart elephant Chota and befriends (and falls for) the sultans beautiful daughter, Princess Mihrimah. A palace education leads Jahan to Mimar Sinan, the empires chief architect, who takes Jahan under his wing as they construct (with Chotas help) some of the most magnificent buildings in history. Yet even as they build Sinans triumphant masterpiecesthe incredible Suleymaniye and Selimiye mosquesdangerous undercurrents begin to emerge, with jealousy erupting among Sinans four apprentices. A memorable story of artistic freedom, creativity, and the clash between science and fundamentalism, Shafaks intricate novel brims with vibrant characters, intriguing adventure, and the lavish backdrop of the Ottoman court, where love and loyalty are no match for raw power.