Reviews

Persepolis is an enthralling story - and a history lesson - about the Iran Revolution and the subsequent events. Like many who have read this, I had a pretty basic understanding of the Iranian revolution and war with Iraq - what I've read in history books or online. It's in a similar vein as Maus - Satrapi takes a period of turmoil and suffering but injects pop culture and comedy with an appropriate level of sensitivity. Many of us can relate to the hilarity and angst of growing up so Satrapi's anecdotes make the story understandable and relatable. Graphic novels are a genius way to educate about world history, especially parts that aren't as well-known or, frankly, ignored. I'm always more invested when I read a personal story or a creative medium like this and Persepolis didn't disappoint.

I don't think it had the same emotional impact on me as it had on others (I wasn't moved to tears like Maus or Noughts & Crosses) but I definitely laughed at her humor and appreciated her storytelling. I'd definitely recommend Persepolis- it's a page-turner, but, even more importantly, critical to achieving a better understanding of the world around us.

PS it's nuts that some US schools tried to ban this book.

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