Persepolis

The Complete Persepolis
Published by Pantheon, 2007; ISBN 0375714839
Recommended reading age: Teen, Adult

Summary:
In 1979, Marjane Satrapi was 9 years old. Thus, while many Iranians (including her parents) were working to overthrow the Shah, Marjane was too old to be oblivious, but too young to truly understand. This kind of naivety is the perfect vehicle for narrating Persepolis. Through Marjane’s eyes, readers experience this Iranian Revolution, and the aftermath resulting in a Fundamentalist Islamic State. Marjane must adapt from her co-ed schools to dwindling opportunities for girls; from wearing anything in public to covering up head-to-toe. While her parents remain hesitant to leave their home in Iran, Marjane eventually leaves for Europe. In Austria, alone, she truly undergoes a classic coming-of-age. Not only will readers immerse themselves in a Middle East culture lesson, but also in a brilliant, autobiographical tale of growing up in Europe.

Review:
Marjane Satrapi’s decision to blend her autobiography with her strikingly simple cartoons was pure genius. The story alone is incredibly compelling, and the illustrations make the reading that much easier. Even in black-and-white cartoons, the characters’ expressions come across loud and clear. I knew next-to-nothing about the Iranian Revolution before picking up Persepolis; and while I am no expert now, I certainly know more than before. Persepolis is an important work based solely on its story and artwork. However, in a Western culture inundated with anti-Middle East, terrorist media, Satrapi’s book is more important than ever. Recommended for graphic novel fans, those with dual heritage, adults, smart teens, rebels, and fans of Persepolis the film.