"Persepolis" is a graphic novel that was chosen as the teen book for the Public Library's Arlington Reads Campaign. Although it is fiction, the story is based on Ms. Satrapi's childhood in Iran and her escape during the cultural revolution that took place in the late 1970s. Many people shy away from graphic novels, finding it difficult to track both images and words to decode the story. I have had that experience myself, but certain graphic novels ("Maus", "Pedro and Me") tell such a strong story that the images and words appear seamless. This is one of those books. The text is the singular and compelling voice of our protagonist, mixed with black and white drawings which are realistic, but simple, and which have symbolic undertones that create real subtext to the story. I was surprised that this had originally been published in French as there was a natural flow to it. It did have a "foreign" feel but it is the story of another culture! I became very wrapped up in the book, to the point that the ending seemed abrupt (the sequel, "Persepolis 2", picks up directly after the first book). The books should be read back to back, but I caution, this is not appropriate middle school fare. The first book focuses on politics, with some graphic remarks and images about those who are tortured or "disappeared" and the second book focuses on Marjane's search for self ... which includes drugs and a growing curiousity about sex. Powerful and important in our world today, I consider this one a "must-read" for older teens.
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