Persepolis: The Story of a Childhood by Marjane Satrapi is an intense autobiography told from an unexpectedly mature child-perspective. Laced with witty satire, but dense with deaths and horrors of the Iranian Revolution, this story is tells A LOT. It tells many highlights of the history of Iran, it tells of Satrapi's life before Vienna, and it tells of the universal political, social, psychological, and emotional themes that can be linked to all individuals. This is a story of trauma and desperation in an individual, a family, a community, and a country. Each turn of the page provides a "graphic" image from the words, the drawings, and the emotions invoked. The reader is wrenched along a sentimental and passionate roller coaster as they follow Satrapi through the pangs of childhood unfamiliar to American readers. While the pictures and the plot are overwhelmingly depressing and colorless, upon completion of the book there is a surprising sense of optimism and encouragement delivered by Satrapi. I believe this is an effective and original combination of prose and artwork that will pull at the heartstrings of its readers as they fall in love with Marjane as both the protagonist and the author. I will read Persepolis 2: The Story of a Return very shortly!
Additionally, I think it is imparative that any teacher using this piece of literature in the classroom obtain a thorough knowledge of Iranian history, particularly the Revolution. I also think that the content is not suitable for all high schoolers and this must be understood by the educators as well as the parents. An appropriate introduction and instruction on the material will be vital to bring about the desired effect of this novel.
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