“Persepolis” by Marjane Satrapi – let’s read and discuss!
Details
Welcome back, readers! For the second time in this book club, we have picked a graphic novel: “Persepolis” by
Marjane Satrapi, already a classic and often described as the best graphic novel of all time.
This one is a memoir. Summary:
> Persepolis is the story of Satrapi's unforgettable childhood and coming of age within a large and loving family in Tehran during the Islamic Revolution; of the contradictions between private and public life in a country plagued by political upheaval; of her high school years in Vienna facing the trials of adolescence far from her family; of her homecoming—both sweet and terrible; and, finally, of her self-imposed exile from her beloved homeland. It is the chronicle of a girlhood and adolescence at once outrageous and familiar, a young life entwined with the history of her country yet filled with the universal trials and joys of growing up.
> Edgy, searingly observant, and candid, often heartbreaking but threaded throughout with raw humor and hard-earned wisdom—Persepolis is a stunning work from one of the most highly regarded, singularly talented graphic artists at work today.
This graphic novel was first published in 2000, and followed up by a sequel. Today, you can usually buy the complete series as one volume (circa 350 pages), which is what we will be discussing. Marjane Satrapi unfortunately passed away earlier this year, at the age of 56.
As always, you can find more information on the book’s GoodReads page and there’s also a film adaption under the same title, from 2007.
Curious to join us? Order a copy at your local book shop or online:
Our meeting is scheduled for September 29, 2026 and we usually discuss in English for 1.5-2 hours. You definitely don’t need a literature degree to participate! It’s important to us to listen to each other, to treat everyone with respect and to create a safe setting.
The discussion takes place virtually in Zoom and the meeting link will be added to this event on the day it happens. Just check back here half an hour before the meetup starts!
It doesn’t matter if you have actually finished the book or whether you’ve attended before – everyone is welcome, as long as you have read at least a few pages and bring your impression.