A wonderful story whether you love graphic novels, or have never read one before. A compelling, interesting, and intriguing story... it touches on lives and history that we don't normally hear that much about in this country, and very effectively humanizes a part of the world we tend to easily demonize.

This was a wonderful introduction to graphic novels and, for me, an introduction to some Iranian history. It made me want more of both.

I'm not a big fan of graphic novels, but it was very refreshing that this book was about a signicifcant part of history. And that is wasn't all happy. The pictures were in black and white which I think suited the book.

A touching story of a childhood lived in the midst of extreme political change. The themes covered in this little story could generate much good conversation and discussion amongst teens and adults.

Persepolis was my first experience with the Graphic Novel genre and I enjoyed it much more than expected. Furthermore, it took me much longer to read than anticipated but it was time well spent. Persepolis is Marjane Satrapi’s story of growing up in Iran during the Shah’s regime, the Islamic Revolution and the war with Iraq. Happily, the author provides a much-needed introduction as historical context, which I referred back to often. Marjane is the only child of Marxist parents and the granddaughter of one of Iran’s last emperors. For the most part, her family is quite ordinary yet as events unfold, the more ‘extraordinary’ becomes the norm. At first, it seemed odd for a comic book to focus on such a serious, multi-faceted subject. However, the black/white drawings and simple text proved to be ideal for conveying a child’s perspective of complicated situations. And there were many complicated situations; prison torture, kidnappings, confiscation of personal property, executions as well as saying good-bye to friends and family. Not to get all-weird and stuff but I read something the other day that took me by surprise. Next year is the 10th anniversary of 9/11. Speaking only for myself, I am not anymore acquainted with the Middle East now than I was then. Morever, I’m Lebanese! Seriously, aside from the sad realization that one should not attempt to hike in Iran, I know very little about the country and am grateful for Marjane’s story of her homeland. I believe I am one of the readers who, as one of the book jacket states, was “allergic to the (Graphic Novel) genre before being seduced by this book.

Honestly - I don't say this often or lightly, but I think this is a pretty much guaranteed GREAT read. I doubt anyone who picks this up will be disappointed. This book was something TOTALLY different for me. Its a graphic novel - something I've never read before. The story is written by a woman reflecting on her childhood growing up in Iran during the 1979 cultural revolution. It is absolutely FANTASTIC! She manages to find humour and irony in the midst of the tragic changes of her country and her life, without ever being disrespectful to the struggles that happened. And you'd think that the format of a graphic novel wouldn't work for something this "heavy", but it is used SO well - it really adds to the narrative. I am totally blown away. I need to get my hands on Persepolis 2 and then I want to watch the movie adaptation

Great book. Funny, educational and inspiring. I couldn't put it down. Go read it.

This is one of the first graphic novels I truly fell in love with. Marjane's story is powerful, and her medium is perfect for its expression. I found the story educational, emotional and beautiful, and is a must-read for EVERYONE. The film was good, but I think the tale is richest on the page.

I'm so glad I read this because it made me aware events that happened in my lifetime, but were completely unknown to me. This memoir simultaneously shows the humour and pain of becoming a teenager, and the horror and uncertainty of living in a society in turmoil. The artwork reminds me of Kathe Kollwitz.

Book club.