I have owned the Persepolis book and the film for a couple
years, and have read it many times. It is one of my favorite stories for its
artistic and historical value. When I first read the book I was probably 16 or
17, and I remember not really understanding the political situation that was
taking place. I wasn’t super interested in politics or even what had begun all
the trouble in the Middle East (except 911 of course), or maybe I just didn’t
know because I don’t think its really talked about here. I know that Iranians,
Iraqis, and Afghans aren’t well understood by the general public in America. I
think that’s what really gives Persepolis an edge. I knew nothing of their
revolution or the struggle the people there face everyday. I can’t imagine
being in such an unstable environment and watching everything good about my
country and religion become a tool used to oppress people.
The other draw to Persepolis for me is Marjane’s journey to
discover who she is and where she belongs. Its cool to see a kid be so
passionate about politics, but its sad to see a kid who is sent away because
their own country isn’t safe. Marjane is very funny and clever, and I loved
reading about her little rebellions after she returned to the country. You
always think that these people are devout and unwavering (or scared into being
so) and I was surprised to see that they still had parties and dancing and had
fun.
I’m really grateful that this book exists, and I think its
important for people to read it.
It helps to educate people about a country that they may think very
negatively of, but probably know nothing about. And what they will find is that
they are just like us.
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