Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi

Persepolis by Marjane Strapi is a biographical graphic novel that follows the story of a young Iranian girl growing up during the overthrow of the Shah and instatement of  Islamic Regime. At first, Marjane (or Marji), doesn't understand what's going on around her. During the chaos aorund her, she decides she wants to become a prophet. She takes refuge in God and reading all the books she can. Then the Shah is overthrown, and a new Islamic regime takes control. All the schools are single-gender, she is forced to wear a veil, and the picture of the Shah is torn out of her textbook. Her parents' friends and Uncle are released from prison. She meets Anoush, her uncle whom she immediately loves. Slowly, though, Marji and her parents realize that the regime isn't that much better than the monarchy that preceded it. Everyone who supported the revolution is now a sworn enemy of the government. The events that follow are unbelievable and, at times, horrifying. Satrapi wrote the text in an almost childish manner, to reflect Marjane's innocence in this horrifying world. All the characters are dynamic and realistic and the book moves at a fast pace, which paired with the sharp graphic shapes reminded me of vertigo. One of my favorite parts about this book was the format of graphic panels. Satrapi drew very simple images, which somehow conveyed a great depth of emotion and graphic weight. The contrasts between light and dark were apparent and very effective in communicating the messages. There was also a great deal of symbolism in the panels, which you will definitely see if you read the book. Another important aspect for me which was something I'd never really seen dealt with so explicitly was how children deal with and interact with religion. It was fascinating to see religion have such a prominent place in the narrative but remain in such a grey area. By the end i wasn't really sure how Strapi wanted me to think about organized religion which I think was the point. Religion as a concept is very complex and it can be weaponized but there is a reason people who are vulnerable, like children, take to it so quickly.