Türkiye - Children's Books

Sunshine, mountains, adventure, seaside resorts, hot air balloons, culture, history, and more can be found in Türkiye (previously called Turkey) as a great family destination.

Do you know of any other children’s books featuring Türkiye? Please feel free to note it in a comment below! 

Children's A to Z Books about Türkiye

T is for Turkey: With a history going back 4,000 years, Turkey has been the homeland to many civilizations — Greeks, Romans, Kurds, Armenians, Assyrians, and Hittites — each of whom has left their cultural, social, and religious marks. Turkey also has some of the best cuisine in the world. Each region offers its own specialties, and the Turkish people have a well-deserved reputation for hospitality. Divided by the Bosphorus strait and bordered by the Aegean Sea, The Black Sea, and the Mediterranean Sea, Turkey bridges the two great continents of Europe and Asia. Its varied terrain is rich in Roman ruins, mosques, and Greek and Armenian churches, and due to its geographical position, while some Turks are skiing in Erratum, others are swimming in Natalya.

Istanbul A to Z: Merhaba! Welcome to Istanbul: A to Z! Who is this book meant for? Children learning the English alphabet, older children or adults, who wish to learn some of the famous landmarks in Istanbul and some basic Turkish words, and visitors to Istanbul who hope to remember some of the places they visited along with some basic Turkish words they are sure to pick up during their trip!

Children's Books about Turkish Folk Tales and Fairy Tales

A Wedding for a Chickpea: A Turkish Folktale: When Keloğlan’s special chickpea gets eaten up while he’s away, he unwittingly sets off a string of trades that leads to an unlikely ending. This beloved Turkish folktale is retold for young children, educators, and families, with lush illustrations inspired by Medieval Art.

The Fish Peri: A Turkish Folk Tale: When the rare fish that young Ahmed caught turns into a fish peri, a beautiful girl, the wicked Podishah covets her for himself until Ahmed, with the help of a genie, rescues her.

The Hungry Coat: A Tale from Turkey: Once upon a time in Turkey there lived a funny, little wise man named Nasrettin Hoca. He wore a huge, white turban and a worn-out coat made of patches upon patches. Riding about on his little gray donkey, he liked to help whomever he could. A friend to all, Nasrettin is a popular figure. But when he is suddenly ignored at a friend's banquet, he realizes it is his patchwork coat that is turning people away from him. He leaves the party and returns later, wearing a brand-new coat. Now Nasrettin is warmly welcomed. But instead of eating the delicious foods placed before him, he feeds them to his coat! How Nasrettin Hoca teaches his friends a lesson about appearances is the heart of this hilarious and clever story. With good humor and luminous illustrations inspired by traditional Turkish paintings, Demi brings to life Turkey's most famous folk hero and imparts a timeless tale with a moral that will resonate with readers everywhere.

Candle Does Not Give Any Heat (Mullah Stories): Long ago, in a part of the world now called the Middle East, or maybe it was Afghanistan or Turkey, there lived a man named Mullah Nasruddin. Everyone calede him 'Mullah' which meant 'priest' in Aabic. While some considered him a learned fool other said he was a wise man. The stories about him may seem funny and first, but they all have a deeper meaning. In this story, Mullah Nasruddin enjoys the company of his friends. One winter's day, while enjoying a chat with his friends, he says that when it comes to spending time with his friends, he can stand even the winter's cold. Mullah's friends challenge him to do so and later trick him to serve them dinner. But what they didn't expect was that their friend was someone whom no one can outsmart.

The Tale of the Unwelcome Guest: Nasruddin Teaches the Town a Lesson: The town beside the sea was abuzz with the news. The governor was holding a grand banquet and everyone was invited—everyone! But no one was as excited as Nasruddin.   On the day of the celebration, Nasruddin works hard in his vineyard picking and squishing grapes. He planned to wear his special long red silk coat, but at the end of the day it’s too late for him to go home and change! When he arrives at the banquet in his grape-juice-stained work clothes, he looks different from what the townspeople were expecting. But Nasruddin is a clever fellow—and he figures out a most delicious way to teach the town a lesson about judging people for the way they look.    The colorful illustrations of Turkish-born artist Mert Tugen complement Circle Round podcast host Rebecca Sheir's original adaptation of this Middle Eastern folktale. Specially designed to be read aloud and shared, the story is accompanied by questions and prompts for conversation, along with creative storytelling activities.

Riding a Donkey Backwards: Wise and Foolish Tales of Mulla Nasruddin: Timeless wisdom is found in absurdity in these tales of an iconic Muslim character known as the sagest man in the village — and also its biggest fool.  Would you like to know how a thief can turn into a donkey? Whether a cow can climb a pole? Or why you should spoon yogurt into a lake? Mulla Nasruddin knows all the answers, and he might also tell you why he rides his donkey backwards. Whether in the guise of an imam in a mosque or a beggar in the street, this trickster is never at a loss for a rejoinder, though it may leave you scratching your head, rolling your eyes, or laughing out loud. Enjoy twenty-one classic tales about a much-loved character from Muslim cultures in a book packed with jokes, riddles, and wisdom and paired with vibrant, theatrical illustrations.

Tales of Mullah Nasuruddin: Mullah Nasruddin is one of the world’s most beloved folk characters. His uncanny sense of humour is what makes him so entertaining and widely loved. Stories of Mullah Nasruddin are full of charming wit and humour that will tickle your bones.

Mullah Nasruddin (Tales of Wit and Wisdom): How do you stop yourself from being blown away all the way to China? How do you get top-notch services out of snooty Turkish bath attendants? Why do camels not have wings?  As thirteen-year-old Shashank the Sad pores over his math homework, a little doodle appears and Mulla Nasruddin—MN to his friends—comes alive! MN’s never-ending stream of stories enthralls Shashank but make him wonder if his new friend is completely crazy. Then one day, Shashank finds himself trapped in a magic grid. Is there a connection between MN’s madcap stories and Shashank’s way out of the grid? Taking the much-loved tales of Mulla Nasruddin into a young boy’s richly imaginative world, Sampurna Chattarji’s retelling is one that will entertain and move both adults and children alike.

Forty-four Turkish Fairy Tales: This book draws on the rich folklore of Turkey. Many of these stories are framed by the usual fairy tale apparatus. These are quests to win the hand of a princess, evil step-relations, talking animals, magical object and transformations, simple (but brave) peasants, wizards and witches, dragons and dungeons, thousand-league journeys, and lovable fools. The majority of these stories contain encounters with Turkish supernatural beings. These are called 'Dews,' known elsewhere in Islamic folklore as 'Devis,' or 'Jin,' Europeanized as 'Genie.' These most resemble the giants of European folk tales, with elements of the fairies. The Dews are, more often than not, malevolent towards humans, although they occasionally help the protagonist in their quest. There are many other specifically Turkish elements and terminology in the stories, for which note the helpful glossary at the end of the book. So this isn't simply an orientalized set of European Märchen, but apparently drawn from an authentic Turkish oran storytelling tradition. However, there is no attribution of source for any of these stories; this is not a scholarly study by any means. As is usual with the fairy tale genre, not all of the story elements are 'suitable for children.'

Children's Books about Stories in Türkiye

The Seven Fairy Mountains of Cappadocia: Küçük, the smallest fairy mountain, is full of worry! Things begin to change in her village and she desperately wants to help, but, could she be part of the problem? Read The Seven Fairy Mountains of Cappadocia to find out how even the smallest fairy mountain can bring about the biggest change! Join Küçük and her sisters in the land of Cappadocia, where a timeless magical element still endures, and wishes really do come true!

I See the Sun in Turkey: A day in the life of a child in Turkey told from the child’s point of view. I See the Sun in Turkey is one of the books in the multiple award-winning I See the Sun in... series of bi-lingual picture books, each focused on one country and one day in the life of one child with a story told from the child’s perspective. I See the Sun in Turkey provides a unique introduction to the culture, family life and language of Turkey in a way that is age-appropriate and sensitive to the current culture and circumstances without becoming political. As with the other books in the series, the author has spent a considerable amount of time in Turkey, not merely as a tourist, but immersed in the environment and living with families who have opened their homes and their hearts to her. Includes facts about the country and a glossary for extended learning. Written in English and translated into Turkish.

Meet Osman Hamdi (Meet the Artist): Art is everywhere. Whether you are sitting in a library or walking around the city, you will find examples of art all over. But how do you know when something is art? How is one piece different from the next? In Meet Osman Hamdi, you will meet a famous Turkish artist. Who better to show you the gorgeous rooms and clothes of the Ottoman Empire than someone who lived there? What textures and colors can you find in his art? Then, create your own colorful sketches!

The Bird Feeder of Istanbul: In the heart of old Istanbul, a boy and his grandfather sell birdseed to travelers, who come from far away to explore the city and marvel at its beautiful mosques. Experience pigeons cooing in the square, ferryboats crossing the Bosphorus, Turkish crafts and foods, and Yeni Camii – the 350-year-old “New Mosque” at the center of community life. Discover Istanbul through your senses! The Bird Feeder of Istanbul is a charming children’s picture book featuring color photography and an extensive glossary of Turkish and Arabic language terms for added learning.

Lost in Istanbul: Merhaba! I’m Mustafa, a beautiful green parrot! Zehra and her family adopted me from a pet shop on the Asian side of Istanbul. Follow me as I live a life of adventure: meeting wonderful friends, seeing amazing beautiful sights and living in freedom. It’s all I ever wanted…or so I thought. Then that longing for home wells up deep inside of me. Meet my adoptive family in Istanbul and all the great friends I meet along the way during my day of adventure, as I go from lost to found in LOST in ISTANBUL. Illustrated by a local high school student, Joy Perdue, who has done a wonderful job capturing the sites of Istanbul for this children’s book.

Children's Books about Travel to Türkiye

Song of the Old City: This lyrical, whimsical picture book, set in the old city of Istanbul, celebrates kindness and generosity of spirit.  Follow one little girl on her busy day through the old city of Istanbul--from the Galata bridge to the Grand Bazaar--as the city opens its arms to her. All along the way, the generous people she meets share many gifts with her: sesame rounds, hot tea, a boat ride, rose candy, pomegranate juice, even a scrub in a Turkish bath! But she doesn't just keep the gifts for herself. At every turn, she finds a way to share what has been given to her and pass it on so others can enjoy it too.  With poetic text and radiant artwork, author Anna Pellicioli and Turkish illustrator Merve Atilgan bring us this heartwarming tale of kindness and generosity in the city known as the crossroads of the world.

A Day in Istanbul (City Explorer): What could you see if you had a day in Istanbul? Photojournalist Elena is thrilled to check out this impressive city. Armed with her camera and her handy researcher Rosa, she is ready for an adventure.  Right away, Elena discovers how amazing Istanbul is! The Galata Tower, bazaar shopping, and meat roasting… There are exciting landmarks and delicious treats around every corner. If she gets confused, fact-checking guru Rosa is there to provide insight and guidance. You can’t find a better world-traveling team!

Tai and the Istanbul Treasure Hunt: Follow Tai on a captivating treasure hunt through the colorful streets of Istanbul in the second book of this magical series!When a shopkeeper sees Tai poring over a book about the ancient city of Istanbul in Turkey, he lets Tai take the book home with her. That night, Tai touches a special map of the world next to her bed and wishes she could see Turkey for herself. She wakes up in a bustling bazaar in the heart of Istanbul, where she meets a new friend. Together they set off on a thrilling hunt for treasure, racing through narrow streets to find clues scattered across the vibrant old city—an adventure that strengthens the bonds of friendship and leads them to discover the most important treasure of all.

Nailah & Nash Take Istanbul: This time, Nailah and Nash are traveling to the beautiful country of Turkey. Join them as they experience a different place, meet new people, and learn about another culture. See the world and all it has to offer through the eyes of kids.

Let's Visit Istanbul!: Adventures of Bella & Harry: Join sibling Chihuahuas, Bella and Harry, as they travel to Istanbul and cruise the Bosphorus River, visit the Blue Mosque, the Grand Bazaar and Topkapi Palace.  Along the way, local cuisine (such as menemen) and basic Turkish phrases are introduced to the reader.  The Adventures of Bella & Harry is a picture book series that chronicles the escapades of a pup named Bella, her little brother Harry and their family, who travel the world exploring the sights and sounds of new, exciting cities.  

Kitu and the Architecture Adventures in Istanbul: The little architect kitten Kitu can look forward to an eventful city walk in Istanbul. The motley metropolis, which connects Europe and Asia, offers hidden streets, fascinating landscapes and outstanding architectural masterpieces from different eras. Together with the seagull Marti, she explores the captivating architecture of the big city. On their trip they learn how children can stand up for animal rights and environmental protection and how they can change the world.

Down the Road in Istanbul: Jump on a ferry, cross the Bosphorous and be captivated by the magical world of Istanbul! Visit the remarkable Grand Bazaar, the beautiful Blue Mosque and the awe-inspiring Aya Sofya.First in the "Down the Road" series, 'Down the Road in Istanbul' is a picture book to inspire adventurers or reminisce on adventures already taken. Highlighted with original watercolor pictures and simple, rhythmic verse, 'Down the Road in Istanbul' is a delight to be enjoyed by both children and adults.

The Diaries of Robin's Travels: Istanbul: Robin is learning about continents at school, so Grandad takes him to a famous transcontinental city – Istanbul! With Ataturk to show them around, they explore the historic collection of mosques, bazaars, Sultans and Sultanas. And don’t forget to try the Turkish Delight! Learn alongside Robin in this instalment of The Diaries of Robin’s Travels.

Türkiye (All Around the World): In this book, readers will learn about the unique and defining features of Türkiye (Turkey). Vibrant, full-color photos and carefully leveled text will engage young readers as they learn more about the key details of the country including geography, climate, culture, and resources. Compelling questions encourage further inquiry.

Türkiye (Cultures of the World): Türkiye is located at a geographic and cultural crossroads--with part of the nation in Asia and another in Europe. Readers discover how Türkiye's location has affected its history, economy, and culture in this thoroughly updated guide to one of the most unique nations on Earth. Vibrant, full-color photographs present Türkiye's landscapes, cities, artwork, and people in beautiful detail, and maps are also included to aid visual learners. Fact boxes highlight points of interest, the Turkish language, and other fun pieces of information. Recipes inspire readers to get creative, and sidebars inspire them with stories of Turkish global citizens.

It's Not Turkey for Dinner, It's Turkey the Country!: Welcome to Turkey! Studying the geographic truths about Turkey will help you to understand its local cultures and traditions, which would you to communicate effectively with its people.

My First Book - Turkey: The culture, the beauty, the landmarks, the food - it is simply fascinating. In this book, we cover all of those magical elements about TURKEY in a digestible and engaging way!

Everything You Should Know About: Istanbul, Faster Learning Facts: Are your children curious about Istanbul? Would they like to know who Ataturk was? Have they learnt what the Dolmabahce Palace looks like or what the whirling Dervishes are? Inside this book, your children will begin a journey that will satisfy their curiosity by answering questions like these and many more!

Yusuf Around the World: Mission Istanbul: This is the story of Yusuf. Right after Yusuf and his family moved to their new house, Yusuf found a very old book in the attic. It was a travel book written by a famous Ottoman Traveler. Yusuf has never seen a book like that so he became very excited. As he went through the pages of the book, a voice invited him to embark upon an epic travel around the world. Would Yusuf join his mysterious soon-to-be-friend, one of the greatest travelers of all time, as he goes to the world's most treasure-bound places?