Part memoir, part history of Iran's political landscape in the 20th century, Satrapi brilliantly ties her own identity crisis with that of her country's. This is by far one of my favorite books of all time. I read it for the first time when I was 13 and have read it several times since. It's so good, I almost don't want others to read it so that it can be my special book forever! Those who love coming of age stories, history, and mid-20th century politics will want to read this book.Persepolis is the story of Satrapi's unforgettable childhood and coming of age within a large and loving family in Tehran during the Islamic Revolution; of the contradictions between private life and public life in a country plagued by political upheaval; of her high school years in Vienna facing the trials of adolescence far from her family; of her homecoming --both sweet and terrible; and, finally, of her self-imposed exile from her beloved homeland. It is the chronicle of a girlhood and adolescence at once outrageous and familiar, a young life entwined with the history of her country yet filled with the universal trials and joys of growing up.
Edgy, searingly observant, and candid, often heartbreaking but threaded throughout with raw humor and hard-earned wisdom -- Persepolis is a stunning work from one of the most highly regarded, singularly talented graphic artists at work today.