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FEBRUARY 2025 36. ISSUEBOOK OF THE MONTH Cengiz Aytmatov%u2019s %u201cThe Day Lasts More Than a Hundred Years%u201d is an unforgettable novel that resonates deeply with the diverse cultures of the Turkic world. Originally published in 1980, this work by the Kyrgyz-born author has also been released under the title %u201cA Day Longer Than a Century%u201d by some publishers.The central theme of the novel is the preservation of traditions. Set against the backdrop of the challenges and resistance during the communist era, the story follows Yedigey in the Kazakh steppes, exploring the factors that led to the collapse of the regime. Aytmatov powerfully underscores the downfall of a system that dehumanizes and mechanizes individuals.As Yedigey fulfills his late friend Kazangap%u2019s dying wish to bury him in the Ana Beyit Cemetery, he embarks on a journey of rediscovery%u2014reconnecting with both his own past and the history of his people. For Yedigey, this single day truly becomes one \a century.\explored. Mankurtization refers to a cruel method of torture used by the Juan Juans to enslave their captives, stripping them of their identity and turning them into mindless servants. According to Turkic, Altai, and Kyrgyz legends, the process involved shaving the victim%u2019s head, wrapping it tightly in wet camel hide, and leaving them bound under the scorching sun. Through the character Sabitcan, who becomes alienated from his traditions after receiving a Western education in Russia, Aytmatov offers a modern critique of cultural estrangement and the loss of identity.Cengiz Aytmatov%u2019s vivid depiction of the fox demonstrates his literary mastery, drawing readers into the story with profound depth. The train station, where the story begins, holds a deeply personal significance for Aytmatov, as it was the last place he saw his father. Both Aytmatov and his father now rest in Ata Beyit Cemetery, alongside other intellectuals executed during Stalin%u2019s oppressive regime.In his work, Aytmatov courageously examines Stalin%u2019s authoritarian rule and the hardships faced by the Kazakh people. The %u201cOrman G%u00f6%u011f%u00fcsl%u00fcler%u201d symbolize a free and ideal world, reflecting Aytmatov%u2019s deep respect for freedom, human dignity, and tradition%u2014values that permeate the book.The following quotes encapsulate the essence of the work:%u201cAfter all, this is the world. Here, some things will always remain unfinished.%u201d%u201cThose accustomed to living free cannot easily adapt to slavery.%u201d%u201cIf someone takes your possessions, your wealth, and all you own, you won%u2019t die; you can regain them. But if they break your spirit and destroy your dignity, there is no cure for that.%u201dTHE DAY LASTS MORE THAN A HUNDRED YEARSCengiz AytmatovL%u00fctf%u00fc B%u0130LG%u0130NNurol %u0130n%u015faatBatum Representative WHAT IS NUROL READING?78