Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi

Satrapi, M. (2003). Persepolis. New York: Pantheon Books. ISBN: 978-0375714573.

Annotation

Autobiographical graphic novel depicting Marjane Satrapi’s childhood to teenage years in Iran during the Islamic revolution.

My thoughts

Persepolis is a compelling story of one young girl’s experience growing up during the Islamic Revolution and the following political and cultural changes. During this time, Satrapi’s family suffered under the Shah and the Islamic Regime. Satrapi describes having family members imprisoned, tortured, and executed, being forced to wear a veil and the fear of living in a city being bombed. Satrapi also chronicles what it’s like to try to be a typical teen living in this situation. As a teenager, she loves rock music and American fashion (i.e. jeans, sneakers, and punk fashion during a time).

Black and white illustrations accentuate the seriousness of the story and transport the reader to Tehran, Iran and Satrapi’s adolescence.  There are some very moving parts to this story. The struggle for intellectual freedom and free expression will resonate with teens and will also make readers appreciate their rights in America. In addition, Satrapi serves as a good role model for teenagers. She is strong, smart, independent, and tries to ask questions while seeking answers for herself.

This is a great book for many reasons. Aside from the strength of the character the book gives a little insight to Iranian culture from a teenagers perspective. For teenagers, reading a perspective of another teenager makes it easier to understand a culture that is different. It is through seeing human similarities and struggles that prejudices can be breeched.

Reading level/ Interest Age

High school/ Adult

Reviews and Awards

2001: Angoulême Coup de Coeur Award for Persepolis

2002: Angoulême Prize for Scenario for Persepolis: Tome

2007: Jury Prize for Persepolis (tied with Silent Light), Cannes Film Festival

Alex Award Winner 2004

Amelia Bloomer List 2004

Booklist Editors Choice: Adult Books for Young Adults 2003

Capitol Choices 2004

School Library Journal Best Adult Books for High School Students 2003

School Library Journal Best Adult Books for High School Students 2004

School Library Journal Best Books 2003

YALSA Best Books for Young Adults 2003

Author website: No official website found.

Media: ink

Genre: Graphic Novel, autobiography