Nefise Abalı, a 2011 MA graduate of the Department of Turkish Language and Literature, has published a new book, “Ne Yapılır Bir Avuç Hayal Kırıklığıyla?” (What to Do with a Handful of Disappointments?). Abalı is currently working as an instructor in the Turkish Unit at Bilkent.
“Ne Yapılır Bir Avuç Hayal Kırıklığıyla?” is an exploration of life’s moments and the emotional scars left by disappointment. In her latest work, Abalı invites readers on a journey, focusing on the process of accepting, transforming and starting anew in the face of unmet desires and expectations. The story centers around the idea that the weight of a handful of disappointments is ours to bear, and how we choose to respond—either by succumbing to despair or creating something new from the pain—defines our path forward.
Abalı’s writing is complemented by the illustrations of Gülçin Arda. This book, suitable for both children and adults, is a tool for anyone looking to rebuild and renew themselves, offering a reflection on life, dreams and the inner strength that resides within us all. It allows the reader to question whether they will be ready to make a new start with their disappointments.
The book was published in November 2024 by MSE Publications and edited by Neşe Kınalı.