Rate this book

Clear rating

1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars

Rooftops of Tehran

by Mahbod Seraji (Goodreads Author)

4.06 of 5 stars 4.06 · rating details · 2,515 ratings · 460 reviews

From "a striking new talent"(Sandra Dallas, author of Tallgrass) comes an unforgettable debut novel of young love and coming of age in an Iran headed toward revolution.

In this poignant, eye-opening and emotionally vivid novel, Mahbod Seraji lays bare the beauty and brutality of the centuries-old Persian culture, while reaffirming the human experiences we all share.

In a m...more

Paperback, 348 pages

Published May 5th 2009 by NAL Trade (first published March 24th 2009)

more details... edit details

Get a copy:

More…

Friend Reviews

To see what your friends thought of this book, please sign up.

Lists with This Book

Judge Books By Their Covers

49th out of 617 books — 613 voters

Best Books of 2009

124th out of 1,229 books — 6,470 voters

More lists with this book...

Community Reviews

(showing 1-30 of 3,000)

filter | sort: default (?) | rating details

Feb 01, 2009 Sepi rated it 5 of 5 stars

Rooftops speaks to the universality of the human condition- that knows no color, creed, sect or country. It is a story of hope,despite the abysmal darkness of a great loss. The voice evolves throughout the story, as does the young hero. Its piercing reality, relentless humor and often heartbreaking anguish turns the pages, and all along we hope we hope that love fills the void left by the loss--and we as readers are whole again.
A touching tale that must be told

7 likes · like · see review

Jan 22, 2009 Tamera Davis rated it 5 of 5 stars

A friend in the media sent me an advance reader copy of this book. It swept me away. I'm still struggling to find my way back into my real world - yes, it's one of those books: the story stays with you, the characters don't fade; a beautiful touching story in the voice of a 17-year old, written like a pro, not a word out of place, not a thought out of character. So visually intense - I felt like I was watching a movie and not reading a book. Powerful, magnificently powerful.
I was blown away by...more

12 likes · like · see review

Sep 23, 2011 Maja rated it 4 of 5 stars

Just two quick remarks. First - had a problem which I always have with books translated into Croatian in the constant never ending present tense > it just bugs me. I sounds text bookish and cold and I just don't like it and think it's wrong. Second - main character's best friend Ahmed is one of the coolest book characters I can remember, one of those you get a crush on. So, watch out. :) To wrap it up - a really really good book, warm, funny and one of those that makes you understand the Arab...more

4 likes · like · see review

Aug 11, 2009 Sally rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: mostly-literary-fiction

This is a beautiful novel, with sensitively drawn characters in a volatile and violent period of Iran, from 1973 to 1974 during the reign of the Shah of Iran. At the heart of this novel is a love story, but there's much more. The sustaining nature of intimate friendships and family relationships, and the sacrifices that the characters make for each other are poetically and movingly portrayed. At a time when U.S. foreign policy with Iran weighs heavily, this novel provides a personal and valuable...more

5 likes · like · see review

Jan 25, 2013 Indiabookstore rated it 4 of 5 stars

Mehbod Seraji has poetized the story by portraying the turmoil stage in the heart of Iran’s capital Tehran in 1970s. It is the rooftop of a seventeen year old boy- Pasha Shahed’ (the narrator) house, the tallest in the neighbourhood of Tehran where he spends blistering summer in pursuit of a rational argument, dwelling questions heavy enough to chase a debate with his closest friend- Ahmed, who knows the inside out of narrator’ interests arising out of the literary books he’s inclined toward and...more Mehbod Seraji has poetized the story by portraying the turmoil stage in the heart of Iran’s capital Tehran in 1970s. It is the rooftop of a seventeen year old boy- Pasha Shahed’ (the narrator) house, the tallest in the neighbourhood of Tehran where he spends blistering summer in pursuit of a rational argument, dwelling questions heavy enough to chase a debate with his closest friend- Ahmed, who knows the inside out of narrator’ interests arising out of the literary books he’s inclined toward and western cinematic work. And also with his mentor, known by the name of Doctor because of his liberal streak and call for his nation’s future where political crisis takes birth in the blood of citizens. And his secret love-Zari, rooftop is the place where he secretly admires his love; it is a forbidden love until the time is unknown to us. Eventually the budded feelings does craft a story which certainly cannot be buried untold.

The tale revolves around the neighbourhood of Tehran, which is not only restricted to a particular pavement, but it involves a commonly outrage suffering, victimising condition of citizens of nation in the hypocrisy of democracy and religion. Narrator’s young age is embedded with questions, his prodigy encircled with the findings of new upbringing of their culture, teachings, education vs. religious beliefs and an ongoing conflict between the inquests of one’s identity.

It is Pasha’s friendship, family, love, relationships and beliefs in the city of Tehran that are the central idea of exploration here. At the age of seventeen, he’s experiencing the urge of finding life along with his friend- Ahmed. They laugh, they talk, they question each other about future and of course the budding love from each end is another topic of discussion.

The narrator is highly influenced by number of literary books; his ideologies are constructed by his curiosity toward learning and outgoing thinking outside the walls of their nation’s suffrage issues and proposals. Irony lies in the fact that the city’s forceful powers have banned on the books which are honest about political colours, history making the building block of nation. To name a few historians and scholars: Emile Zola, Maxim Gorky, Noam Chomsky and Bernard Shaw which interests the narrator, portraying the picture of Marxian concept, its linkages and thinking embedded in the society in a most subtle sense and many more ideologies wrapped around the socio-political ideas....

For the full review, visit IndiaBookStore.(less)

like · see review

Aug 24, 2012 Vibina Venugopal rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: tour

I loved the retreat of rooftop chat between two thick friends and I couldn't wait to complete it..Pasha's and Zari's love is something one can only get to read in books, for now days love stands for a different meaning and dimension..This novel brought back all the romantic tale that I read as a teenager ...Sitting under a tree hsring a moment of silence, those glances, silly moments with the loved ones flint a smile across my face...Pasha's and Ahamed's conversation are a real delight, this wou...more I loved the retreat of rooftop chat between two thick friends and I couldn't wait to complete it..Pasha's and Zari's love is something one can only get to read in books, for now days love stands for a different meaning and dimension..This novel brought back all the romantic tale that I read as a teenager ...Sitting under a tree hsring a moment of silence, those glances, silly moments with the loved ones flint a smile across my face...Pasha's and Ahamed's conversation are a real delight, this would carry the reader to the good old teenage days filled with friendly chat and humor so full of laughter and life..When their conversation focuses upon Faheemeh and Zari Naderi ( whom Pasha eyes) their naughty glimmer shines in eyes......Pasha's feelings for Zari is put across the reader strongly and one doesn't mind those fantasies even when the news of Zari's engagement floats.. Ahamed manages to get on Fahemeh inspite of the odds while Pasha's keeps his feelings for Pasha a secret...I also liked a Pasha's struggle as a son to keep up with his father's expectations, coming in terms with his own ambitions.. He adores his father yet can't relate to his expectations..Shah's tyranny on Iran is put in a different vantage here, rather pointing on the lives of people around the country and their sufferings the whole novel revolves around the beauty of love and care of family and friends... In spite of all the difficult times all the characters try to move their life as normal as possible surrounding themselves with laughter and joy...That doesn't mean life was easy, very possible step is taken to hurdle independent thoughts and life,with spies all around life becomes hard when the people find it difficult to trust anybody around...Life for these friends too take a different journey, reminding themselves to think before acting, losing their carefree days, this was a put off not only for them but also for the reader...Novel is staged during the violent period of Iranian history from 1973 to 1974... Teenage life is given an extra bit of carefree zone, with nothing much to worry about spending days dreaming high rather running for life after the political strife..To make it memorable there is an evergreen quote from Seraji
" Never take life seriously, you'll never get out of it alive"
There is a stack contrast of life that brings upon tonnes of memories flooding down, reminiscent s of great days that they were forced to leave behind...Seraji's description about Iranian culture and lifestyle was enlightening..It had a such a feel good aura that I wanted to be in those alleys of Iran , wonderful market and those sunny days over the rooftop sharing a cup of tea talking light heatedly with my gang of friends .. This book is kind of book to cuddle over a weekend..The book is an easy breezy read with its share of tragic twists and turns ., nowadays I can't get on with a story were everything goes well , does that make me a sadist?? well I would say a realist...Just grab and enjoy the read...(less)

2 likes · like · see review

Jun 30, 2012 Afsaneh Hojabri rated it 4 of 5 stars

I read Rooftops of Tehran in two consecutive nights, as I could not put it down once I started the book.

I was originally drawn to this book because although we have a wealth of novel/memoir written by Iranian women, I personally knew of none written by an Iranian man. I was curious to find out what a male perspective reflected in such format would contain, and I was not disappointed! Indeed, this is the first credit I would give the author.

I enjoyed the ease Seraji writes with; the vivid pictu...more

2 likes · like · see review

Jan 16, 2012 Jana Perskie rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: fiction

Rooftops of Tehran is both a bittersweet coming of age tale as well as a story of the tragic loss of innocence.

The setting is Tehran in 1973 and 1974, a period when Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi, a brutal dictator, ruled his country with an iron fist with the help of the United States. Members of his National Intelligence and Security Organization, the dreaded SAVAK, were seemingly everywhere. Mohammad Mosaddeq, the democratically elected Prime Minister of Iran, from 1951 to 1953, was famous for h...more

like · see review

Dec 04, 2010 Linda C. rated it 4 of 5 stars

What a wonderful insight into the life and culture of Iran under the Shah. As Americans this is a part of world that is a mystery to us. And guess what? We are a mystery to them too.

This story is narrated by a teenage Pasha, struggling to find himself as a man during the early 1970's in Tehran. He is coming of age, learning how to shave, playing soccer in the alley and falling in love all under the stars on the roof of his family's home. When he unwittingly leads the secret police toward his fri...more

1 like · like · see review

Nov 13, 2010 Yvette marked it as to-read

Rooftops of Tehran: A Novel by Mahbod Seraji
Pasha Shahed is a typical teenage boy who likes hanging out with his friends on the rooftop terrace of his house, dreaming about life, love, and what the future holds. What makes this 17-year-old different is that he is living under the harsh reign of the shah in Iran during the summer of 1973. With his biggest worry being his feelings for Zari, the girl next door who has been promised to another since birth, Pasha has a rude awakening when the SAVAK,...more

like · see review

Jan 11, 2010 CuriousLibrarian rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2009, best-reads-2009

I find this book difficult to review. It is easily the best book I've read this year. But I'm so frustrated by the final two pages that it practically negates how much I loved this book. I am not referring to what you might think if you have read the book, but rather how "easy" the denouement is after all is said and done. That's all I can say without being spoilery, but I'm happy to discuss in comments if anyone wants.

Backing up...

I seem to have become enamored with books about Iran in 70s. Thi...more

1 like · like · see review

Aug 26, 2009 Holyn rated it 4 of 5 stars

I read this for the book club at my local library and am glad I did since I don't know if I would have picked it up on my own.

Rooftops of Tehran is set in Tehran in the late 1970s as the city is beginning to boil before the overthrow of the Shah and the Ayatollah's reign. The narrator is a 17 year old boy and it's a story of his life and loves.

The common theme through this book, for me, was love and friendship and how duty plays into each of these for Pasha and his friends/family. There are thre...more

like · see review

Jul 25, 2009 Kathleen Hagen added it

Shelves: 2009-audio-books, 2009-fiction

Rooftops of Tehran, by Mahbod Seraji, narrated by Jonathan Todd Ross, produced by Recorded Books, downloaded from audible.com.

This is the story of two teenage boys, aged 17, in Tehran just before the revolution. The two boys meet on their roofs at night, smoke and talk, and get glimpses of the beautiful girls they’re in love with. But one night the boys witness the capture of one of their neighbors who was thought to be a political danger to the government. This capture and execution led to a ch...more

like · see review

May 25, 2009 Dana rated it 4 of 5 stars

This book is set in Iran just before the revolution. Pasha is a seventeen year old who spends his evenings on his rooftop joking around with Ahmed, his best friend. They discuss school, their futures and Ahmed's love. But Pasha has a burdensome secret. He has fallen in love with his beautiful next door neighbor, Zari. He watches from a distance falling more and more under her spell.

Zari is betrothed to a young medical student, Doctor, who is an activist. Pasha feels the guilt and keeps his love...more

like · see review

Aug 29, 2009 Tara Chevrestt rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc, iran, historical-fiction

This is novel about close friendships and how love can survive all things. The setting is Tehran 1973 and 1974. The story is told from the viewpoint of an 18 year old young man, Pasha. Pasha has a best friend, Ahmed and these two have an extremely close, trusting friendship. They share everything and unlike Americans, they express their feelings without fear. I was so incredibly touched by the bond between them and also by the bonds between everybody in the neighborhood. The family ties, the car...more

like · see review

Sep 01, 2010 May rated it 4 of 5 stars

in many ways this novel is a gift. this is the first book i have read that is set in Iran, and it has opened a whole new desire in me to read and learn more about the country. it's no secret that we need more books about persian culture in the english literary scene right now, and this book is eye-opening, culturally rich, relevant, and well-written. The love story that becomes the main focus of the book is a bit exaggerated and melodramatic, but works to tie everything together and adds to the...more

1 like · like · see review

Dec 25, 2012 Regina Lindsey rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorites

Every once in a while you stumble upon a book that, after reading it, you want to stop everyone on the street, hand them a copy, and insist they run home and read. Rooftops of Tehran is just that sort of book for me.

In many ways the themes are universal. It is a coming of age tale in which two life- long friends experience their first loves and shed the naivete that we all eventually must let go of when we realize life is not fair and is often cruel. But, set in Iran during the tumultuous 70’s...more Every once in a while you stumble upon a book that, after reading it, you want to stop everyone on the street, hand them a copy, and insist they run home and read. Rooftops of Tehran is just that sort of book for me.

In many ways the themes are universal. It is a coming of age tale in which two life- long friends experience their first loves and shed the naivete that we all eventually must let go of when we realize life is not fair and is often cruel. But, set in Iran during the tumultuous 70’s, the reader gets a glimpse into the history of Iran as well as its rich culture. In doing so, Seraji does his country a great service by bringing to light some of the lesser known aspects of the time. I’m always surprised to learn how many people are unaware of the U.S. role in the 1953 coup d'état. Further, so much of the writing regarding the 70’s focuses on the struggle between the Shah’s followers and the rising Islamic fundamentalists. Seraji demonstrates the danger those associated with Marxism faced. He brilliantly weaves the country’s history into the story by illustrating its impact on the psyche of the nation. “I wonder how we can explain this national impulse to cheat. Maybe it’s more a matter of sharing than cheating. I’ve heard that people in the West compete at everything, and that you’re either a loser or a winner. In my country, we don’t have that same competitive spirit. Centuries of misery under the dominance of the Moguls, Arabs, and internal despotic rulers have conditioned us to stick together and help each other through unpleasant situations.” Finally, he does the best job I’ve seen of illustrating the dynamics of US-Iranian relations at this time. I’ve read about the misconceptions that Iranians held during the era about Americans in many of the non-fiction books. Here, Seraji, illustrates them in ways that are quite humorous and brings clarity to a complicated subject.

The book is incredibly well written. For me, character development is critical to make my favorites list. Here, the characters are so well drawn that you can’t help but experience every emotion alongside the residents of the alley, and, boy, is it an emotional rollercoaster. I laughed at the antics of Ahmed. I cheered on the boys as they routinely stepped into aid each other. I set aside the book twice to cry my eyes out. And, I was often angry, wishing Pasha would forget his promise to the brotherhood of the boxing fraternity and knock someone’s lights out. The alternating periods during the first part of the book creates an incredible tension in the book as the reader quickly falls in love with the characters but understands early on that something devastating has occurred.

The only negative comment I can make is that the ending didn’t work for me. It simply wasn’t plausible. Because of that I should probably give it 4 stars, but I love the book so much I just can’t.

I will never look at a red rose again without thinking of this book.
(less)

3 likes · like · see review

Jul 01, 2011 Candice rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: Anyone who likes books that give a glimpse of a foreign culture

I found this book at turns heartwarming and heartbreaking, with some humor thrown in. Mahbod Seraji lived the first 19 years of his life in Iran and gives a clear picture of the Persian culture. It’s a coming-of-age story for 17-year-old Pasha, but it’s also a glimpse of what life was like in 1973-74 under the Shah. The first part of the book is structured in a tantalizing way. From the beginning, set in the Roozbeh Psychiatric Hospital in Tehran in the winter of 1974, the reader knows that some...more

like · see review

Jan 01, 2010 Derek Emerson rated it 1 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2009-books-read

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. Rooftops of Tehran offers us an important glimpse into Iran which most of us are not aware of in any real sense. Even now we are reading about the protests and killings happening because of many people's dissatisfaction with the ruling party. Rooftops also takes place during a time of frustration with the government, but this time it is with the Shah (which the U.S. put in power) and the outcome not seen in the book is the eventual overthrow of the government.

Here the time is 1973-74 and we foll...more Rooftops of Tehran offers us an important glimpse into Iran which most of us are not aware of in any real sense. Even now we are reading about the protests and killings happening because of many people's dissatisfaction with the ruling party. Rooftops also takes place during a time of frustration with the government, but this time it is with the Shah (which the U.S. put in power) and the outcome not seen in the book is the eventual overthrow of the government.

Here the time is 1973-74 and we follow the life of four high school students, two boys and two girls, working on the transition to adulthood. Yes, a coming of age story, but with the secret police taking people without reason and erasing their existence, the decisions are a bit more important.

The best part of this book for many non-Iranian readers will be the glimpse into the everyday world of Iran. Many of us think of the Iranian woman in a burka as the common standard. But here the burka is worn only by one extremely religious relative, the Masked Angel, in another city. Arranged marriages do exist, but the main one in this novel is broken in the face of true love (Ahmed and Faheemeh) and the love of Zari and Pasha (the two main characters) is welcomed by both sets of parents.

The drama moves forward when Zari's "arranged boyfriend," Doctor, disappears after working as an activist against the government. SAVAK is the name of the secret police force which becomes a character in itself, always watching and controlling people even when they are not sure of when and how. We watch as Zari and the others deal with Doctor's disappearance, while Pasha deals with guilt of loving Zari despite her engagement and also because he is unintentionally responsible for SAVAK catching Doctor.

SPOILER ALERT: Usually I avoid spoilers, but since my biggest frustration with the story comes in the plot direction, allow me to spoil! Doctor is killed in prison and the families are told to not mourn him. Zari is, of course, distraught over his death. However, it is clear throughout the book that she does not love him (she likes him) and that she loves Pasha. So it is surprising and hard to believe when she sets herself on fire on the 40th day of his death (a special time of mourning) while running into the Shah's birthday parade. Not only does she do this surprising act (she is hardly a radical), but she brings Pasha and their friends along to watch -- much to their horror. Pasha ends up in a mental institution (which we knew he would end up in since some chapters take place there, although until this incident we never know why he is there). Zari dies in her protest and Pasha returns home to find that the Masked Angel has moved into Zari's home (they are neighbors) to care for her parents. It takes one meeting with the Masked Angel and her whisper of a voice to figure out that Zari is alive and living in disguise. Why? Well, reasons are given, but none are easy to buy. SAVAK knows she is alive, so why hide it from anyone else? It takes Pasha a while to come to this realization and we wait not so patiently for this to develop. When it does she sends him off to the U.S. to study so he can return to her.

This twist in the plot is unnecessary and way too "cute" to read without frustration. But the anti-climax of the revelation and the reunion of the "lovers" is also not worth the wait. This book makes a good story for the sappy romantics of the world, but they can find better stories than this to entertain them. I could be accused of a romantic leaning (I do love Jane Austen!), but this is too thick for me.

What the book did encourage me to do is learn more about this country I still remember best for holding U.S. embassy employees hostage. I'm getting a non-fiction book on modern-day Iran so I can learn more of its recent history and current state. If Seraji's intent was to interest us in Iran, he is successful. It his intent was to write a great story, maybe the sequel will be better(less)

4 likes · like · see review

Jul 20, 2012 Pari rated it 2 of 5 stars

Rooftops of Tehran started out to be promising and tragic, but ended flat and disappointing.

I loved the beginning of the book and immediately felt immersed in Iranian life. I feel like the characteristics of each character were exaggerated to an extreme degree, but it worked for this book. I've also never come across a novel that deals with the oppression and fear of pre-revolution Iran during the Shah's reign (as opposed to the many that talk about post-revolution Iran and Khomeini). It was re...more

3 likes · like · see review

Dec 20, 2011 Ana Luisa rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Só tenho uma palavra para descrever este livro: Perfeito.
Acho incrível a maneira como tudo é descrito, desde o ambiente, os sentimentos e até mesmo a cultura iraniana. Quando leio um livro, a primeira coisa que procuro é aprender algo novo, seja uma lição de vida ou até uma curiosidade sobre algum aspecto, mas o que encontrei neste livro foi algo que vai mais além…
Vencedor de vários prémios, este livro dá-nos a conhecer um pouco da luta pelo fim de ditadura vivida entre os anos de 1973 e 1974. F...more

like · see review

May 05, 2013 Shailee rated it 5 of 5 stars

This novel was absolutely amazingly written. The vivid and colorful way in which the author brought out the characters was superb. I truly felt that I could see everything as clearly as the author intended, and it was so clear and precise that in my mind's eye, I felt like I was watching a movie unfold through the words that were used. I loved the portrayal of the narrator and his friends and family. The whole book takes place amidst the tyrannical order imposed upon the people of Iran during th...more

like · see review

Jul 25, 2012 Bree T rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: cultural, romance

Pasha is 17, living in Tehran in 1973, spending summer on the rooftops with his best friend Ahmed. Ahmed is in love with Faheemeh but is devastated when he learns from her brothers that the parents of a university student are approaching hers about an arranged marriage. Pasha himself is in a similar situation- he has been in love with Zari, the girl next door even though she is betrothed (and has been since her birth) to a man known as ‘Doctor’, who Pasha both admires and looks up to. Because of...more Pasha is 17, living in Tehran in 1973, spending summer on the rooftops with his best friend Ahmed. Ahmed is in love with Faheemeh but is devastated when he learns from her brothers that the parents of a university student are approaching hers about an arranged marriage. Pasha himself is in a similar situation- he has been in love with Zari, the girl next door even though she is betrothed (and has been since her birth) to a man known as ‘Doctor’, who Pasha both admires and looks up to. Because of this he struggles with his feelings of love for Zari, warring with his feelings for guilt about betraying Doctor and having feelings for his girl.

It is an uncertain time in Iran, discontent with the Shah is building among the young, educated university students such as Doctor and Pasha’s guilt inreases a hundredfold when he is taken by the Shah’s secret police, found because of Pasha’s inadvertent actions. The grief that leads from his execution awaken the young group of friends, Pasha, Ahmed, Faheemah and Zari to just what sort of rule their country is living under and they all cope in different ways with Zari’s desperate bid for recognition of her grief the most shocking of all.

July was Iran for Shannon at Giraffe Days‘ Around The World In 12 Books Challenge and I borrowed 2 titles from my local library because I couldn’t really decide which one I wanted to read. In the end I went with this one because I liked the cover and because it was about the simplicity of first love as well as life in Iran pre-revolution. The book is mostly set through the summer and fall of 1973 with chapters interspersed set in winter of 1974 where Pasha is in a mental institution, injured and repressing memories. The journey of 1973 is all about getting to the point in time that the Pasha of 1974 is repressing.

Pasha is intelligent, well-read and thoughtful. He enjoys his talks with Doctor, also well-read and well educated and politically informed but his thoughts are never too far from Zari, his beautiful neighbour. His love for her is pure and all-consuming but he’s far too shy to even speak to her until Ahmed intervenes and works out a way for him to spend time with his love Faheemah that also allows Pasha to spend time with Zari. It is quite obvious she returns his affection but the two of them would never do anything about it given she has been betrothed to Doctor by their parents since her birth as a way of always ensuring their friendship stayed strong. Pasha and Zari are both honourable and had Doctor not have been taken, would probably have never spoken a word of their feelings toward each other. But his loss draws them even closer together, they both become something for the other to lean upon, although Pasha has no idea exactly what terrible thing Zari plans as her act of vengeful grief.

This book is steeped in Persian culture, giving so much information but in a way that melds cohesively with the story and never feels like an info-dump. Persian culture is one of the oldest in the world, mired in grief and violence but also strong bonds of family and friendship. It really piqued my interest, because Iran is rarely portrayed in a positive manner and it’s often described as mostly a desert wasteland. This book gave some description of the scenery that was deeply contradictory to most of what I’ve heard about it and I went and looked up some photos and it does have some truly beautiful areas. Although it’s ‘not advised’ to visit there these days given its proximity to both Iraq and Afghanistan, it is certainly a place that would interest me if I were doing travelling. Pasha and Ahmed’s friendship is beautifully written, they are two boys that although they joke around and rib each other good naturedly, care deeply about each other and aren’t afraid to show this in a way that Western cultures would never consider. Likewise Pasha’s relationship with his father was a delight to experience – his father was an incredible character. He himself had a friend such as Ahmed was to Pasha and the story of their friendship and what happened to it was powerful and moving. I loved the family dynamics in this book, the humouring of Ahmed’s sweet but delusional grandmother, the protectiveness of brothers towards their sisters from other boys in the street – staring is strictly not allowed!

At its core, Rooftops Of Tehran is a sweet story of that first time you fall in love. Everyone remembers it, what it felt like to be too shy to talk to someone and just watch them from afar. That is Pasha’s life and it’s all he would ever have done if Ahmed had not have manipulated things slightly. Instead he got to experience the thrill and growth of love, even if it was tinged with grief and heartbreak. I read that the author plans a sequel to this work one day and I hope that it gets written and published because I think so much of Pasha and Zari’s story is left untold at the conclusion of this book. I’d love to read more about what happens to them, especially as Iran fast approaches the year of the revolution.(less)

like · see review

Jul 31, 2011 April rated it 5 of 5 stars

I don't think I've ever openly cried for any characters from a book the way I did with this one. "Rooftops of Tehran" is a poignant book that absorbed me completely. I actually had to put it down for a bit as things became very intense when Zari's actions turn the tide in such a shocking way. I love Ahmed's character and that he is Pasha's best friend. I adore Pasha's emotions and thoughts on Zari. Even Pasha's father and his stories and the quirks of his mother endeared to me. I longed to be a...more

3 likes · like · see review

May 30, 2010 Ellen O'brien rated it 4 of 5 stars

I think this is potentially a really great book club book. It is not as graphic in some respects as The Kite Runner but it tells an interesting story of young love in the waining years of Shah Reza Pahlavi's reign. Ill-fated lovers, political and social commentary and local color all mix together. I found myself asking the most important question, "How much of this is true?" I remember how unquestioning I was when I first met someone from Persia, the eminent history, Dr. Nasratollah Rasek in abo...more

1 like · like · see review

May 25, 2009 Cathyb rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: own, goodreads

I tried to write my review for this novel as soon as I finished reading; however, I was unable to do so. Whether it was from writer's block or from fear of writing an inadequate review, I do not know. I am leaning toward the latter. I considered stringing together a set of adjectives: brilliant, funny, original, haunting. Although they could all be used to describe this novel, it would not have been enough. Instead, I started off with the following: Rooftops of Tehran, a debut novel by Mahbod Se...more I tried to write my review for this novel as soon as I finished reading; however, I was unable to do so. Whether it was from writer's block or from fear of writing an inadequate review, I do not know. I am leaning toward the latter. I considered stringing together a set of adjectives: brilliant, funny, original, haunting. Although they could all be used to describe this novel, it would not have been enough. Instead, I started off with the following: Rooftops of Tehran, a debut novel by Mahbod Seraji, is a wonderfully written coming of age story of young love. After that I just stared at the page for quite some time and gave up. How could I do justice to Mr. Seraji's masterful prose?

From the rooftop of his home, Pasha and his friends talk about life - sharing their dreams, hopes, and fears. But where are the rooftops? New York, London, Paris. Could be but, no, they are in Iran. Not a place nor a people that most Westerners know much about. Through his vivid characterizations and descriptions, Mr. Seraji is able to transport us to Iran and give us a glimpse into this ancient world. I could clearly picture the homes, alleyways, streets and rooftops. He breathed so much life into these characters that they will not be forgotten. I laughed when Pasha's father was unwittingly the perpetrator in ding dong ditch. I felt compassion for Grandma and was awed that the entire neighborhood looked after her – not something that is commonplace here in America. I felt for the characters when tragedy struck and I rooted for them in their moments of rebellion. In short, his characters had That – they had honor, treasured friendship, prized love, had courage and strength to stand up for what they believed in.

Rooftops of Tehran is much more than a love story. It is a an affirmation of shared human experiences. We all dream, love, laugh and cry. We have fears and and want good things for our children. Mr. Seraji has given us a glimpse into the unknown and it is up to us to recognize that regardless of religion or culture we are more alike than some would like us to believe.

At times, this novel is funny and at other times tragic. It is certainly unforgettable. I highly recommend to those wishing to broaden their horizons and learn more about the Persian people and culture. Mahbod Seraji is an author to watch. I know I will be looking and waiting for his next novel.

Thanks Goodreads! This book was won in a GR giveaway.(less)

1 like · like · see review

Aug 17, 2009 Serena rated it 5 of 5 stars

Mahbod Seraji's debut novel Rooftops of Tehran is a beautifully crafted journey set in Tehran, Iran, during the tumultuous 1970s. Pasha Shahed is a teenage boy who in the summer before his last year of high school faces the reality of his homeland, the despair of irrevocable change, and his first love.

"'And your star guides you when you're in trouble, right?'

'Your star and the stars of the people you love.'

Ahmed closes one eye and lifts his thumb to block out one of the brighter stars. 'I'm tire...more Mahbod Seraji's debut novel Rooftops of Tehran is a beautifully crafted journey set in Tehran, Iran, during the tumultuous 1970s. Pasha Shahed is a teenage boy who in the summer before his last year of high school faces the reality of his homeland, the despair of irrevocable change, and his first love.

"'And your star guides you when you're in trouble, right?'

'Your star and the stars of the people you love.'

Ahmed closes one eye and lifts his thumb to block out one of the brighter stars. 'I'm tired of looking at your big fat face.'" (Page 4)

Pasha and his friend Ahmed spend many nights on the rooftops discussing school, love, and life, but their simple lives soon become complicated. Ahmed declares his love for Faheemeh even though she is betrothed to another, and Pasha holds his secret love for his neighbor and friend's fiancee, Zari, close to his heart. "Doctor" and Pasha have a genuine intellectual relationship, but the underlying tension stemming from Pasha's secret love for Doctor's fiancee Zari, lingers behind the surface.

"In order to cure my introversion, she insists I drink a dusky concoction that looks and smells like used motor oil. I complain that her remedy tastes horrible, and she tells me to be quiet and stop whining." (Page 9)

"We'll have chelo Kebob--a skewer of ground beef mixed with onions and domestic Persian herbs, and a skewer of filet, served over basmati rice that has been prepared with butter, the savory Persian herb somagh, and baked tomatoes." (Page 244)

Seraji paints a clear picture of Iran's people and the culture that dictates its people survive even the worst situations possible. Pasha is a strong character in spite of his doubt, but like any young person feels personally responsible for the major events in his life even if he was powerless to stop them. From the Iranian dishes to the crowded neighborhoods, readers will fall into Tehran and walk the streets with Pasha and his friends. The tyrannical government's actions and dispensation of justice are infuriating and crushing, but in the midst of these heartaches, readers will laugh as Pasha and Ahmed poke fun at one another and Pasha regains hope.

"'Deep in each knot of a Persian rug is a statement of the hands that patiently drove the needle and the thread,' I once heard my father say." (Page 165)

Seraji deftly creates memorable characters whose lives become fraught with tension and possible death. Readers are likely to become heavily invested emotionally in Pasha's life, cheering him on, crying alongside him in his grief, and hoping that he will regain his center. Rooftops of Tehran is witty and emotionally charged; a novel that will leave readers wanting more of Pasha and his family and friends. This debut novel reads like a well-polished epic.

Rooftops of Tehran has made it to my growing list of top books for 2009; I was so emotionally involved that I found myself weeping on more than one occasion.(less)

2 likes · like · see review

Jun 03, 2009 Chelsea rated it 3 of 5 stars

This book was really good and I liked that it mixed the story of Pasha's coming of age and falling in love with the history of Iran at the time and the beginnings of revolution and uprising. It's a little sad, but there are happy parts too. It's also a bit of a mystery that you piece together a little at a time. The story goes back and forth between 1973- where he is enjoying life, spending time with friends, and falling in love with the girl next door- and 1974 where he is in a mental hospital...more

like · see review

May 03, 2013 C.G. Fewston rated it 3 of 5 stars

Rooftops of Tehran by Mahbod Seraji (his first book) is a fictitious account of Pasha Shahed, a 17-year-old boy spending his summer in Tehran, Iran with his best friends in 1973. The novel is loosely based on Seraji's own time spent in Iran before he left at the age of 19, roughly the same age as Pasha who moves to America to attend university after faking his high school grades. Actually, Seraji states in a conversation found at the back of the book that when he was writing the book the protago...more Rooftops of Tehran by Mahbod Seraji (his first book) is a fictitious account of Pasha Shahed, a 17-year-old boy spending his summer in Tehran, Iran with his best friends in 1973. The novel is loosely based on Seraji's own time spent in Iran before he left at the age of 19, roughly the same age as Pasha who moves to America to attend university after faking his high school grades. Actually, Seraji states in a conversation found at the back of the book that when he was writing the book the protagonist (or Pasha) had no name since he/Seraji thought in terms of himself as being the main character, and Pasha "would have been [Seraji's] name if Mahbod wasn't chosen, and Shahed is [Seraji's] father's pseudonym, and [Seraj's] mother's maiden name." The reader can rest assured that Seraji is not only writing from memory but also from the heart.

Rooftops of Tehran is basically a love story that goes horribly wrong. Pasha falls in love with a girl named Zari, who is slightly older and is engaged to marry Doctor, a 26-year-old university student who is also an activist against the Shah's regime in 1973.

As for the story it is engaging and enchanting, and certainly recreates Tehran before the revolution, but also represents the SAVAK, the secret police, in a dark and fearful tale of men who are arrested and jailed with no explanation and the power the SAVAK have over the normal citizens. And then things go wrong for Pasha and his precious Zari.

As for the writing, one native in English can immediately tell that this book was written by someone with English as a second language. The sentences are short and choppy and often include cheesy cliches. In addition, the dialogue is often unreal in the negative sense and lacks in credibility. Here's an example:

Pasha is speaking to Ahmed, his best friend: "I hate them. I hate them all. They killed Doctor. It wasn't the SAVAK. It was this screwed-up system, this goddamn country and its fucking people who can't get their act together to overthrow a tyrant [Here the writer is simply ranting on his own behalf]. We're all a bunch of cowards or we would've rushed into the streets protesting his arrest the night I gave him away. Then maybe he'd still be alive" (p 193).

There are many, many more examples of how the dialogue rants or simply breaks the verisimilitude of storytelling, and is the sign of any novice writer. This reader wasn't impressed with the writing.

The book, however, is worth reading to learn more about other cultures and for the love between Pasha and Zari, but do not expect to be overwhelmed with beautiful language--there simply is none. A recommend, but a weak one at best.

(less)

like · see review

Feb 27, 2013 Meri rated it 1 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I wanted to liken my experiences reading this book to having to continually swallow spoonfuls of bitter medicine. The prose and the dialogue were painful to digest, however I knew that understanding the culture of the Iranian people would be good for me.
I WANTED to use that metaphor but I can't, for I never was given a proper understanding Iran's hatred for the West.
Seraji's characters consistently lambaste America throughout the novel. He mentions Mossadegh and the coup but never does he clear...more

like · see review

Jim Chang First, this is a terribly written review, The writer of the above review should take a writing/ grammar class before offering her opinions on others'...more
Mar 15, 2013 03:59pm

Meri You completely misinterpreted my review, which I guess is my fault since I have a terrible writing style.
I'm very aware of the despotism of the Shah....more
updated Mar 16, 2013 05:02am

« previous 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 … 99 100 next »

new topic
Discuss This Book

topics	posts	views	last activity
Around the World ...: gck recommends Rooftops of Tehran	1	12	Dec 05, 2011 10:45pm
The China Post review of Rooftops of Tehran	1	13	Jul 10, 2009 05:43pm
TruthOut.org Review of rooftops of Tehran	1	13	Jul 10, 2009 05:40pm
Contra Costa Times review of Rooftops of Tehran	1	7	Jul 10, 2009 05:38pm
Milwaukee Senitnel Review of Rooftops of Tehran	1	6	Jul 10, 2009 05:36pm
Minneapolis Star Tribune Review of Rooftops of Tehran	1	6	Jul 10, 2009 05:34pm
San Francisco Chronicle Review of Rooftops of Tehran	1	12	May 28, 2009 10:41pm

combine
Other Editions (25)

More editions...

Videos About This Book

Mahbod Seraji on Voice of America - Part 1

Add a comment

Genres

Historical Fiction

77 users

Cultural > Iran

29 users

Book Club

24 users

Romance

14 users

Cultural

10 users

Cultural > Asia

8 users

Adult Fiction

8 users

Cultural > International

8 users

Contemporary

6 users

Young Adult > Coming Of Age

6 users

See top shelves...

Readers also enjoyed similar books

About Mahbod Seraji

ROOFTOPS OF TEHRAN is a richly rendered first novel about courage, sacrifice, and the bonds of friendship and love. In clear, vivid details, Mahbod Seraji opens the door to the fascinating world of Iran and provides a revealing glimpse into the life and customs of a country on the verge of a revolution.

"...charmingly romantic. Seraji captures the thoughts and emotions of a young boy and creates a...more

More about Mahbod Seraji...

Share This Book

Facebook Twitter Your website

Trivia About Rooftops of Tehran

No trivia or quizzes yet. Add some now »

Quotes from Rooftops of Tehran

“Don't take life too serriously; you'll never get out of it alive!” — 10 people liked it

“Trust me. A storm is brewing inside this cool cat now. She'll gradually break down and you'll see what's behind the clouds.” — 6 people liked it

More quotes…

title link	preview: Rooftops of Tehran
avg rating	preview: Rooftops of Tehran Goodreads rating: 4.06 (2515 ratings)
small image	preview: click here [close]
med image	preview: click here [close]
BBCode	[url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6001011-rooftops-of-tehran?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book][img]http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1348590451l/6001011.jpg[/img][/url] [url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6001011-rooftops-of-tehran?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book]Rooftops of Tehran by Mahbod Seraji[/url]

Rooftops of Tehran

Friend Reviews

Community Reviews

Share This Book

Share This Book on Your Website