Hi Everyone!

I hope you enjoy our May issue of the Istanbul Literary Review. We are very excited about all the poetry, fiction, and book reviews in this issue. The cover was photographed by Halime Getir. It is such a stunning photograph. Also you will see photography by Chuck Taylor.

In our guidelines, we ask that the submissions be grammatically correct. Some of the fiction we received was difficult to read. There were many words misspelled and some of the sentences didn't make sense. Please proof your work before sending it to us. Thank you.

Since our last issue, so many things have happened in this world. I have been thinking of the earthquake victims in Haiti and Chile, the oil spill in the Gulf Coast, and all the victims of flooding in New England and the Southern States. It is very sad to see this happening. I have received e-mails from many writers who are dealing with some of these catastrophes. My thoughts go out to all of them.

This Friday, I am taking part in a poetry reading focusing on social justice and peace. Peace in this world is something we all want. I hope to keep receiving the wonderful poetry and fiction from all of you throughout the world. We must continue to bridge the gap in writing. It really is wonderful to read such wonderful poetry, fiction, plays, and essays from different parts of the world. Please keep sending us your writing.

Thank you Etkin, Guluzar, Halime, Susan, and the ILR staff for everything you have done for this issue.

Have a wonderful summer. Enjoy the sun, the blue sky and your friendship with one another.

Best,