The novel centers around an elderly woman who, after a life of hard work and raising children, finds herself reluctantly placed in a nursing home by her daughter. The narrative explores the protagonist's struggle with the loss of independence and the cold, impersonal treatment she receives in the institution. Her longing for freedom and connection with her family and cultural roots leads her to escape the nursing home, embarking on a journey that reflects on themes of aging, autonomy, and the complexities of mother-daughter relationships. Through her experiences, the book delves into the broader social issues surrounding the care of the elderly in contemporary society.

The book is a harrowing tale of a young woman's survival in a Balkan concentration camp during the Bosnian War. The protagonist, a school teacher, is taken from her village and forced into sexual slavery by the enemy soldiers. It's a stark exploration of the brutalities of war, the dehumanization of individuals, and the resilience of the human spirit. The narrative is a poignant commentary on the horrors of war and the resilience of women in the face of unimaginable atrocities.

"The Ministry of Pain" is a powerful and introspective novel that follows the life of Tanja Lucić, a Croatian immigrant and former professor of literature, as she navigates the challenges of living in exile in Amsterdam. Through Tanja's perspective, the book explores themes of loss, displacement, and the struggle to preserve one's identity in a foreign land. With a blend of dark humor and poignant observations, the author delves into the complexities of memory, trauma, and the enduring pain of war, offering a profound exploration of the human condition.