Toplanınca is a silent (wordless) children's book set in a grandmother's home in 1990s Istanbul. Told entirely through a child's eyes without any text, it relies on detailed visual storytelling to evoke family memories and nostalgia for readers of all ages.
Project Details:
Status: Personal Project / Unpublished
Format: Wordless Picture Book
Target Audience: Children (Ages 3-5) and nostalgia lovers
page 1-2
"While set in a specific cultural context—the bustling, hospitable atmosphere of a traditional Turkish home in the 1990s—the core of the story is universal. It captures the warmth of big family gatherings, the chaos of shared spaces, and the silent bonds between generations that anyone who has visited a grandparent can recognize."
The Traditional Carpet (Yerdeki Halı)
In Turkish culture, shoes are always removed at the door, making the carpet the primary texture of daily life. Thick, patterned rugs anchored the living room, often serving as the actual playground where children sat and observed the adult world.
Lace Tablecloth (Dantelli Örtü)
Handcrafted lace (Dantel) was a staple of Turkish homes in the 90s. Placing it over dining tables, coffee tables, and even television sets was a common tradition, symbolizing a homemaker's patience and the art of welcoming guests into a meticulously cared-for space.
page 5-6
Misafirlik (The Ritual of Hosting): In Turkish culture, guests are considered "God's guests" (Tanrı misafiri). Hosting people with abundant food and attention is a core social value.
Turkish Tea (Çay): Not just a drink, but a symbol of welcome and endless conversation in Turkish hospitality.
