Caught in the aftermath of the
Iranian revolution, the wealthy and privileged Amin family fall foul of
the revolutionary guard. Isaac, the father, is imprisoned and the effect on the family is calamitous. Not only is this a story of a Jewish
family surviving a turbulent world, it is also a delicate exploration of the universal themes of love and identity, materialism and privilege.
A compelling and multi-layered read.
Great book. We ALL enjoyed it. The discussion was wide ranging and covered many examples of oppression of religion ... We recommend this as a great read. Blenheim 007
Wonderful book - a hit with the whole group. What a debut! Nelson 051
A good read. Sobering. We all liked the main character and the ending. It was beautifully written. Lower Hutt 008
Enjoyed this book - well written. A good read. Dunedin 015
Our group found this a beautifully written, but depressing book. Lower Huttt 004
Not everyone in the group read this book, some were too busy with the Christmas rush. Those that did read it, rated it very highly and couldn't put it down. Christchurch 031
CHCH 176
01-11-2023
Most appreciated having read the book. While the description of torture and violence was difficult to stomach, that was balanced by the descriptive writing of the sights, sounds and smells of Iran.
MAST 005
15-08-2022
A beautifully written debut novel which was appreciated by all members. Characters were well developed and created a suspenseful saga with dreadful cruelty and chaos, but also the will to survive and finally escape the regime in Iran.
AUCK 354
18-03-2020
A good '1st' novel. Some felt the character development was a bit weak. Didn't 'relate' to them.
GOVER 005
18-03-2020
Generally enjoyed this book. Sometimes a struggle with sadness of subject matter. Isaac a most believable, complex, in depth and relatable character. Descriptions of prison experience very powerful.
TEAWA 003
18-03-2020
It was very very very good because it was easy to read and informative. Discussion about the effects of regimes which disempower whole populations. Recommend. A book of strength written from a first hand account.
WELL 156
18-03-2020
An interesting time in Iran's history but writing did not match the interest of the time. Isaac's incarceration however, was well told.
HAMIL 029
04-12-2018
Our group was quite lukewarm about this book. Perhaps we have overdosed on novels about this part of the world, but several found the characters lacking in engagement. The torture scenes were painful to read, but well-written. The discussion about what it means to be a refugee that followed was lively. We could have talked more about the divide between rich and poor as a cause of revolution.
WELL 117
19-02-2018
An interesting discussion, as always. Rated an average of 7/10 by all at the meeting. Most, while appreciating the quality of the writing especially for a first book, found the characters (aside perhaps from Isaac) were not drawn in sufficient depth. This perceived lack meant the entire story was not as affecting on the reader as it might have been.
WELL 041
19-02-2018
We found this an interesting, and on the whole, a well-written first book. We wondered whether parts were autobiographical or relating to families she knew. Historically, it was most interesting. Although dealing with cruel and horrific situations, there was also a gentle approach and many insightful observations of human nature.
WELL 123
19-02-2018
Members found the book grim, and yet so readable. The questions produced a lively discussion.
WELL 079
19-02-2018
Excellent book. Universally enjoyed.
WANG 005
19-02-2018
Our group was intrigued with this story of post Shah Iran, and it was an education for most of us. A lively discussion!
HAMIL 003
19-02-2018
Since 'Septembers of Shiraz' included graphic descriptions of torture, it was difficult for some in the group to say they 'loved' the book, but we agreed it was a very interesting and moving read. Whilst the focus was on the characters and most found them very well written, one or two members would have welcomed more background information on the events described. We did have a great discussion, and this time, found the publisher's questions relevant and about the right length.
