Graphic Novel Review – Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi (4/5 stars)
Reading Level: Young Adult
Genre: Graphic Novel/Autobiography
Length: 160 pages
Publisher: Pantheon
Release Date: June 1, 2004
ISBN-13: 978-0375714573
Stand Alone or Series: 1st book in the Persepolis series
Source: Gift
Rating: 4/5 stars
“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.
Persepolis paints an unforgettable portrait of daily life in Iran and of the bewildering contradictions between home life and public life. Marjane’s child’s-eye view of dethroned emperors, state-sanctioned whippings, and heroes of the revolution allows us to learn as she does the history of this fascinating country and of her own extraordinary family. Intensely personal, profoundly political, and wholly original, Persepolis is at once a story of growing up and a reminder of the human cost of war and political repression. It shows how we carry on, with laughter and tears, in the face of absurdity. And, finally, it introduces us to an irresistible little girl with whom we cannot help but fall in love.”
This is the first book in the Persepolis duology (I actually did not know this was part of a series when I picked it up). It was a well done graphic novel about a young girl growing up in Tehran.
As you might expect some of the things Satrapi goes through are shocking and upsetting. At the same time you will be surprised how kids will always act like kids and how normal her family tries to keep their lives despite the tumult around them.
It’s a good book to expose people to life in Iran and how it affects the common people who are just trying to make it through their day to day lives. I would recommend to young adult and older just because there is some discussion about rape and there is a lot of violence.
Overall a well done graphic novel about growing up in Iran. I plan on reading the second book in the series because I am curious to know what happens to Satrapi when she goes to Europe. A good read for those who are interested in autobiographies and learning about the Middle East.
