Madam Atatürk - by Ipek Calislar (Paperback)

About the Book

An international bestseller, this is the vivid biography of Latife Hanım, Kemal Atatürk's wife - a hugely significant figure in the birth of modern Turkey

Book Synopsis

Mustafa Kemal Atatürk is hailed as one of the most charismatic political leaders of the twentieth century, but little is known today about his one and only wife, Latife Hanım. A multilingual intellectual educated at the Sorbonne, Latife's marriage to Atatürk raised her to the pinnacle of political power. She played a central role in the creation of a modern and secular Turkey and championed the emancipation of women. Throughout her marriage, she stood beside her husband, acting as his interpreter and diplomatic aide. However, after only two years of marriage, Atatürk divorced Latife, who was shunned and spent the rest of her life in seclusion.

An international bestseller, this intimate biography vividly brings to life the story of an exceptional and courageous woman, well ahead of her time, who lived through a remarkable period in Turkish history.

Review Quotes

'Sumptuous, surprising and profound ... one of the most successful biographies to have been written in Turkish' Orhan Pamuk

'Eye-opening ... Latife played a pivotal role in shaping the new Turkey - an acknowledgement of her contribution is long overdue.' New Internationalist

'This fascinating retelling highlights an important moment in the struggle for women's suffrage ... A poignant reminder of the lengths [Latife] went to in order to be heard.' The Lady

'A daring biography' Independent