Pomegranates and Grapes: Landscapes from my Childhood

When Nuray Aykin’s only son left home for college, she wished to leave him a legacy that would provide insight into how he came to be. In this memoir, she narrates a colorful journey through Turkey and the United States as a mother, businesswoman, gardener, wife, ex-wife,daughter, sister, aunt, and stepmother.

 Pomegranates and Grapes tells stories of her loved ones and describes the places where she spent her childhood—from a little Mediterranean town to the city of Ankara, Turkey’s capital. She recalls her homes in the United States: Buffalo, where cold weather and a new culture posed great challenges; Washington,DC, where their lives were deeply affected by loneliness and illness; and New Jersey, where she ultimately settled and found happiness.

 With wit, Aykin describes bitter moments with a sigh and happy moments with lyrical and delicious descriptions. A tribute to her family, Pomegranates and Grapes shares a memoir to be cherished.