"The Bastard of Istanbul" is a novel by Turkish author Elif Shafak, published in 2006. The story revolves around the lives of two families, one Turkish and one Armenian, exploring themes of identity, memory, and the impact of history. The narrative is set in modern-day Istanbul, where the characters grapple with their pasts and cultural heritage. The novel features a diverse cast, including Asya, a young woman who defies traditional norms, and Zeynep, her American cousin. Through their experiences, the book addresses the complexities of Turkish-Armenian relations and the struggle for personal and collective identity amidst historical tensions.