Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi

My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Persepolis, by Marjane Satrapi, is a surprisingly exhilarating, nonfiction graphic novel. As a memoir, Persepolis takes the reader through the devastating history regarding the demise of the Shah’s regime, the Islamic Revolution, and the war with Iraq. Marjane Satrapi, or Marji, as she calls herself, retells her life events as a citizen of Iran from age six to fourteen, including political ideologies, religion, and the effects of war.

The overall topic of Persepolis is adolescent life in Iran during the Islamic Revolution and the progression of Iran’s political state throughout Marji’s childhood. The subject matter allows readers to learn about political aspects and the history of Iran among other serious topics. Although the book has a strong political undertone, Satrapi’s use of pathos through the main character’s prayers and thoughts create the overwhelming theme of resilience. The author’s family is constantly put through difficult situations, but manage to overcome challenges with positivity and unity. As a graphic novel, Persepolis is organized in comic strips filled with illustrations that capture everything from death, torture, and love. Throughout the book, a few speech bubbles have words with an asterisk next to it. The appropriate definition can be found directly under the corresponding illustration, allowing the reader to fully comprehend the story line.

Because of the topics covered in Persepolis, it is most appropriate for young adults, ranging from the upper middle grades to high school students. There are graphic scenes containing illustrations of death, torture, and other acts of violence. The book also contains explicit language and some sexual content. Although the nature of the book may be controversial, teachers have a chance to impart real knowledge over history and true events that occur all over the world. History teachers might find this book most valuable, as it will make the effects of politics and war a tangible concept. A true strongpoint in this book is the comedic relief the main character provides as she attempts to understand the world she lives in. The reader is given war, politics, and religion through the eyes of a child, as Marji’s thoughts and fantasies make light of serious situations. If readers are eager for more, Marjane Satrapi continues her memoir in Persepolis 2: The Story of a Return.

Personally, I felt that Persepolis was engaging in every way, yet it was also painful. It felt like I was with Anne Frank all over again, and there are some books that I cannot bear to relive. Although I have no connection to the Iranian Revolution, I do have a connection to war. My angst may be the fear that still lives in me from when my brother fought in Afghanistan after the September 11th attacks. Consumed with the feeling of unsteadiness and hopeful for a happy ending, I read this book from cover to cover in one sitting. That is the definition of an engaging read.

Persepolis was made into an animated film in 2007! It received nominations from both the Academy and the Golden Globes. The movie would be the perfect closure to an in-class book study.

Satrapi, M. (2003). Persepolis. New York City, United States of America: Pantheon Books.