Persepolis: The Story of a Childhood by Marjane SatrapiBack-of-the-book blurb: Persepolis is Marjane Satrapi’s memoir of growing up in Iran during the Islamic Revolution. In powerful black-and-white comic strip images, Satrapi tells the story of her life in Tehran from ages six to fourteen, years that saw the overthrow of the Shah’s regime, the triumph of the Islamic Revolution, and the devastating effects of war with Iraq. The intelligent and outspoken only child of committed Marxists and the great-granddaughter of one of Iran’s last emperors, Marjane bears witness to a childhood uniquely entwined with the history of her country.
She is Too Fond of Books’ quick review: Persepolis is a memoir written in graphic (story board) format. There are no shades of gray, literally or figuratively; Satrapi writes her memories of being raised in Iran during the rise of the Islamic Revolution, illustrated with sharp monochromatic drawings that convey emotion while making her story accessible.
Her story is not unique, in that thousands of other young girls experienced confusion and questioning during this time. It is, however, unusual; her parents actively demonstrate against the new regime, and friends and family are connected in the opposition. Satrapi sees class struggles, accusations of conspiracy, and threats and consequences against her parents’ associates and neighbors.
This is a life where parties are held in secret, wine is illegal, men and women are separated, and women are forced to wear the veil. Popular rock music and “designer” Nike sneakers symbolize opposition to the regime, and displaying them is met with punishment. It is a confusing time for a young woman who wants to be “normal”, yet also struggles to understand and protest against the injustices she sees.
In an Introduction to Persepolis, the author discusses the changes in her home country following the overthrow of the Shah:
Since then, this old and great civilization has been discussed mostly in connection with fundamentalism, fanaticism, and terrorism. As an Iranian who has lived more than half of my life in Iran, I know that this image is far from the truth. This is why writing Persepolis was so important to me. I believe that an entire nation should not be judged by the wrongdoings of a few extremists. I also don’t want those Iranians who lost their lives in prisons defending freedom, who died in the war against Iraq, who suffered under various repressive regimes, or who were forced to leave their families and flee their homeland to be forgotten.
One can forgive but one should never forget.
Persepolis, the graphic memoir, takes its title from Persepolis, the ancient capital of the Persian Empire, located in modern-day Iran. Satrapi connects her “never forget” statement by naming her memoir for the city in ruins, perhaps hoping for a phoenix-rising-from-the-ashes in Iran’s future.
Satrapi has written a sequel, Persepolis 2: The Story of a Return (Pantheon paperback 2005), which follows her time in Vienna and her return to Tehran. I plan to read this to see how she fares in both cities, with relative freedom, then once again under the regime.
The book was shelved in the Young Adult section of our town library. I would definitely recommend it for middle school age and higher, based on advanced themes and a bit of strong language. I think it could be cross-referenced in contemporary history (current events) in the main section of the library, where it might reach an even larger audience.
FTC Disclosure: book was borrowed from my local library; somehow I didn’t return it on time and racked up $3 in late fees!
I really want to read this! I just had a quick look and my own library has it, so I’m totally going to get it on the weekend. I read another book about the Islamic Revolution, The House of the Mosque by Kader Abdolah, and I’m reviewing it tomorrow. I was totally fascinated by it so I’m looking forward to experiencing this as well.
Good books are worth late fees! I am considering this one for my Graphic Novel Challenge. It is shocking that people are forced to live this way, even today. I am pretty sure I wouldn’t last long over there.
Meghan – thanks for the recommendation. The other book I’ve read about this period is READING LOLITA IN TEHRAN – excellent first-person account.
Sandy – you had to mention another challenge
No, I saw red last week when a contractor asked if I had to “ask your husband” before making a decision.
I keep hearing great things about this one. I want to add a few grahic memoirs this year so I’ll have to add it to my list.
I really enjoyed this book. I’m really surprised that your library had it in the YA section. There isn’t anything offensive in it, but I do think you need to know a little bit about the Middle East to understand it.
I’m trying to get Aidan to read more non fiction and he seems to really enjoy history and books about other countries so I may have to pick this one up in a few years if his taste in books is still the same.
I’ve been wanting to read this book for a while, but just not gotten around to it. I don’t know if they have it at my library, but I know they have the movie adaptation. I didn’t know the title was taken from the ancient city… probably because I didn’t know there was an ancient city of Persepolis, so I learned something today
This was on my radar some time back but kind of fell off. I’d better make sure it’s actually on the physical tbr list instead of just the one in my head.
Library shelving (and bookstore shelving, too) confuses me sometimes. I’ve always understood this to be an adult graphic novel. I guess it could be YA lit because it’s a kind of coming-of-age story(?). Anywho, I’ve had the complete “Persepolis” edition on my shelf for ages. I know it’s going to be great, since I watched the animated movie and absolutely, positively LOVED it. It was funny, moving, heartbreaking, educational, and harrowing. If you can find it, I definitely recommend you check it out.
I’ve had this one on my list to read for quite some time. Given all of the recent unrest in Iran it seems even more timely to read it. Thanks for a great review.
I read this book for my Young Adult Literature class. It was definitely one of everyone’s favorites and highly recommended for high school students. I found Marjane’s story compelling and heart-wrenching. The illustrations were simply amazing!
The two books were the Centre County (PA) Reads pick last year. I was proud of my county for picking such an important book in a medium that was likely unfamiliar for many.
I hope to read this at some point, as I’ve seen lots of good reviews. I didn’t think it was YA.
Stacy – I want to read more graphic format books, too. Last year I read THE SHINIEST JEWEL, a graphic memoir about a mom’s experience during an international adoption — very nicely done.
Kathy – The shelving also makes me realize that kids know more than we think they do (they’re aware of world events)
Ryan – you might preview it first; there are a few graphic/violent scenes (consider the subject)
Kool-Aid Mom – yes! After I read PERSEPOLIS 2 I want to see the movie
Lisa – Yeah, I find the same thing … TBRs in my head never get read!
J.S. – it’s on my wish list now.
Kathleen – yes, very timely. I think the author’s notes in her intro are poignant.
Denise – I want to read more about Marjane’s life after she leaves Iran; did your class read/discuss PERSEPOLIS 2 as well?
Beth – Huge kudos to the county for recognizing the importance of this story.
Anna – well worth the late fee I paid
We didn’t read PERSEPOLIS 2 but it is on my list of books to read. Summer time…
I’m curious – did anyone else find the small print hard to read? Over forty adult readers may be demanding that YA books be in large print soon – especially graphic novels!
This is another book that I have been wanting to read for a long time. I have heard amazing things about it as well and am glad that you liked it. Did you know that they made a movie based on the book as well? It is done in the very same style as the book and looks interesting as well.
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