NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • Wise, funny, and heartbreaking, Persepolis is Marjane Satrapi’s acclaimed graphic memoir of growing up in Iran during the Islamic Revolution. “A wholly original achievement.... Satrapi evokes herself and her schoolmates coming of age in a world of protests and disappearances.... A stark, shocking impact.” —The New York Times: "The 50 Best Memoirs of the Past 50 Years" One of the New York Times’s 100 Best Books of the 21st Century In powerful black-and-white comic strip images, Satrapi tells the coming-of-age story of her life in Tehran from ages six to fourteen, years that saw the overthrow of the Shah’s regime, the triumph of the Islamic Revolution, and the devastating effects of war with Iraq. The intelligent and outspoken only child of committed Marxists and the great-granddaughter of one of Iran’s last emperors, Marjane bears witness to a childhood uniquely entwined with the history of her country. Persepolis paints an unforgettable portrait of daily life in Iran and of the bewildering contradictions between home life and public life. Marjane’s child’s-eye view of dethroned emperors, state-sanctioned whippings, and heroes of the revolution allows us to learn as she does the history of this fascinating country and of her own extraordinary family. Intensely personal, profoundly political, and wholly original, Persepolis is at once a story of growing up and a reminder of the human cost of war and political repression. It shows how we carry on, with laughter and tears, in the face of absurdity. And, finally, it introduces us to an irresistible little girl with whom we cannot help but fall in love.

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About the author
Marjane Satrapi
Author
Marjane Satrapi is a French-Iranian graphic novelist, cartoonist, illustrator, film director, and children's book author. Her best-known works include the graphic novel Persepolis and its film adaptation, the graphic novel Chicken with Plums, Woman, Life, Freedom and the Marie Curie biopic Radioactive.
Persepolis
by Marjane Satrapi
Books Like Persepolis
If you're looking for books similar to Persepolis, here are some recommendations based on themes, tone, and narrative style.
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A graphic novel trilogy documenting the Civil Rights Movement through John Lewis's personal experiences. Similar to Persepolis, it uses a personal narrative to explore significant historical and political events. The book provides a powerful, firsthand account of struggle, resistance, and social change. Lewis's story offers insights into personal courage and systemic transformation.
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A graphic memoir exploring family dynamics, sexuality, and personal identity. Similar to Persepolis, it offers a deeply personal coming-of-age story with introspective and sometimes painful insights. Bechdel examines her relationship with her father and her own sexual awakening through a complex, literary lens. The book uses innovative storytelling techniques and visual metaphors to explore profound emotional landscapes.
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Another work by Satrapi that explores Iranian women's experiences through intimate conversations. Similar to Persepolis, it uses humor and candid storytelling to address complex social issues. The graphic novel provides a frank discussion of sexuality, marriage, and women's experiences in Iranian society. Satrapi's distinctive style offers a witty and insightful perspective.
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A graphic memoir about the author's experiences working in North Korea. Like Persepolis, it provides an outsider's perspective on a complex political environment. Delisle uses humor and keen observation to explore the absurdities of life in a totalitarian state. The book offers insights into cultural differences and the human experience under strict political control.
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A graphic novel exploring trauma, media, and contemporary social dynamics. Like Persepolis, it offers a nuanced exploration of personal experiences within broader social contexts. The book examines how individuals process grief and navigate complex emotional landscapes. Drnaso's minimalist style provides a stark, powerful narrative about modern alienation.
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A graphic memoir exploring the author's experiences with sex work. Similar to Persepolis, it offers a frank, personal perspective on complex social issues. Brown provides a candid, non-sensationalist exploration of sexuality and human relationships. The book challenges societal norms and offers a nuanced view of personal choices.
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