Book Review: “Persepolis”- Marjane Satrapi

So to celebrate Banned Books Week I will review one of the novels off the list I featured in my previous post (see here)

I chose to review one of my favorite books, which I have read over and over again. Today I’ll be spotlighting/reviewing the graphic novel, “Persepolis”!

“Persepolis” by Marjane Satrapi (English Translation 2003-2004)

Genre: Autobiographical, Graphic Novel

Book Length: Published in two volumes

Synopsis:

Marjane Satrapi depicts her childhood up to her early adult years in Iran during and after the Islamic revolution. Persepolis depicts Satrapi’s childhood in Iran, and Persepolis 2 depicts her high school years in Vienna, Austria and her return to Iran. It was originally published in French, but then was later translated into several languages as it became popular. There is also a really entertaining animated film version for the novel as well. It was released in 2007 and I highly recommend watching this too.

Review:

Satrapi is fantastic! She is such a great storyteller and writer. She connects with her audience on a personal level and she tells her life story. There are a lot of emotions going on as you read the comic. Some parts are serious, and others are comedic, sad, and happy. Marjane gives a lot of life lessons as she grows from a child, to a teenager, and then to adulthood. There is a lot you can learn not only from Marjane, but also about Iran’s culture and history. This is one my favorite graphic novels ever and I will continue to read it over and over again.

Now getting back to Banned Books Week…”Persepolis” was banned in public schools in Chicago “due to the powerful images of torture in the book” It was deemed inappropriate even after the fact that it has been read by students widely since being published. Eventually, the school issued a letter to high school principals disregard the earlier order to pull the book (see full article here).

It’s also banned in Iran, which I can see the reasons behind. I feel that “Persepolis” is an amazing story and a story that everyone should read at least once! I personally learned a lot about Iran culture, history, and through Marjane got to see a perspective of what is what like to be a woman during that time and place.

Everyone go check it out!

What are you reading for Banned Books Week?