Black

Black is the main character of the novel. The plot usually follows his actions, and he has the narrative voice in several chapters. Black grows up with an absent father and ambitious mother. He learns his love of books from his uncle, Enishte. He is banished when he declares his love for 12-year-old Shekure. During his twelve-year absence, he travels and works various jobs. He laments that he has forgotten Shekure's face.

Black's Uncle Enishte invites him to return to Istanbul after hearing of the books Black arranged. Black returns more mature and more handsome with his tall, lanky look and curly hair. He loves Istanbul, but it has changed since he left. He nervously anticipates seeing Shekure's face again. Black is happy to help his Uncle Enishte, but their relationship is not as close as it once was. This is partly because of his interest in Shekure...