books_plants_hikes's review
5.0
Graphic novels aren't usually something I read. I'm so happy I checked this one out. The book has a "Breadwinner" feel, if you've read that book. However, Persepolis speaks a lot more to the oppression of the people as a whole, instead of just a look at one family. Marji addresses some preconceived notions and ideas that Westerns likely have about Iran and other countries of the Middle East. I was born after a lot of these events took place and sadly the history of these middle eastern countries is poorly addressed throughout our traditional schooling. When the Middle East came to my attention it was in 2011 and it was only because of the war with Iraq. The author does a wonderful job of inserting some history into the story to help the reader understand how things built to the state that they are in. The story also helped me to think of and connect with the people of Iran and not the government. The country, is , or at least was full of citizen who wanted to fight to have good things for this nation. They endured much suffering and loss in attempts to make that reality.
It's important to honor that most of these people have had to give up, do, and endure things that have brought them emotions and feelings I will never know.
It's important to honor that most of these people have had to give up, do, and endure things that have brought them emotions and feelings I will never know.
dashadashahi's review
3.0
This is a very nice book. It shows a perspective to the Iranian revolution and ensuing Iran-Iraq war that is hardly explored in the literature, that of a child’s experience. While it focuses on an upper-class family, something the author makes clear, and fails to really contextualize a lot of the events it is still very informative. Perhaps if you’ve no background knowledge on the topic it would be less fruitful because much of the events assume you know why what is happening is occurring.
mayaanabel's review
5.0
This book opened my eyes on the Islamic revolution. As an American, I have never been educated about the history of Iran(or any other non-European based country. It was nice to be able to see a different view than my own.