I had planned on a different book entirely for my second review this week, but as I scrolled through social media yesterday, I came across a post announcing the death of a legendary writer and cartoonist. It only felt right to pay homage to her incredible work. I ordered a copy of a graphic novel I first read as a high school freshman to be delivered first thing this morning, and I binge-read it today.

Marjane Satrapi’s memoir Persepolis is a hauntingly illustrated account of her childhood growing up in 1970s and early 1980s Tehran amidst the Islamic Revolution. Through stunning black-and-white artwork, she portrays life in an active war zone side by side with the typical struggles of girlhood. It’s no wonder that this book is as beloved as it is, because it tells an important chapter of history through the eyes of a young girl from an influential family with deep roots in Iran’s past.

It is a graphic novel, and many people associate that style of storytelling with younger readers, but this book is a prime example that not all graphic novels are meant for children. It’s definitely aimed at at least a high school reading level and feels just as impactful to an adult reader.

Works like this always remind me of Art Spiegelman’s Maus – historical, powerful, and integral for young adults seeking a better understanding of the struggles faced by different cultures throughout history, particularly within the last century. If you found Maus fascinating, this is another excellent read.

I was deeply saddened to hear of Satrapi’s untimely death yesterday. I feel that hers is a voice that should never go silent, and for that reason I urge you to grab a copy of this book. It’s a quick yet informative read that offers a window into life in Iran during a period of immense upheaval, and I plan on reading the sequel as soon as I can get my hands on a copy. I pray that this remarkable woman may rest in peace, and I’ll always be grateful for having had the chance to read her story.