Persepolis is an autobiographical graphic novel by Marjane Satrapi. It documents her life growing up in Iran, and then leaving to stay in Europe when Iran's political atmosphere became dangerous. This is one of my favorite graphic novels that I've ever read. Satrapi's writing style is compelling and believable, and her character is strong-willed and interesting. I enjoyed watching her grow up, and how her views changed while still keeping usually the same basis of her childhood dreams. For example, in the very beginning, Satrapi says that she wanted to be a prophet. While she later abandons this idea, she spends a great amount of time educating herself and not letting others suffocate her with their own opinions. She speaks out for womens' rights, and stands up for what she believes in.
One of my favorite sequences in the book is when Satrapi becomes depressed, and decides to kill herself. This is her character's lowest low, and she "sleeps for three days", until God tells her she isn't ready. Satrapi then wakes up and begins living life again with a renewed passion.
After reading this book, I decided to watch the film, because Satrapi played an enormous part in its creation. In fact, she was one of the directors. The film follows the book very closely, and keeps the same unique visual style. It is also in French, as the original graphic novel was.
Persepolis is a graphic novel that most everyone in the graphic novel fanbase has at least heard of, if not read, and for good reason. It's an incredibly fascinating work with notes on Iran's current political unease, and the tension this puts on those living there. In the end, Satrapi's parents send her away for good, telling her not to return to Iran, as it was unsuitable for her now. This bittersweet ending neatly wraps up a rather bittersweet story, and provides the springboard into Satrapi's life as an artist in France.
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