Persepolis

A friend of mine recommended this graphic novel memoir by Marjorie Satrapi. The book recounts her childhood in Iran, beginning with the fall of the Shah and the ensuing Islamic Revolution and up to the Iran-Iraq war. My friend thought it was an amazing story enhanced by viewing it through a child's eyes--Satrapi was 10-14 during this period. She also appreciated how the family's views shifted over time in response to the events around them. Throughout the repressiveness, Satrapi manages to remain fiercely independent, both a source of pride and fear for her family in a country where female independence is dangerous. The sequel is also recommended.