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Persepolis: The Story of a Childhood,
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Rachelle Tyrrell
As an experienced teacher of 12-17 year olds, I can definitively say "It depends!" Because it does depend on the teen, and on the circumstances in which they are reading it. There are some pretty deep and dark (albeit very important) themes, including detailed descriptions and illustrated depictions of non-fictional violence and torture.
For some younger teens, this might be disturbing, depending on what they have already been exposed to in their culture and environment. For others, who have already learned about certain of the harsher realities experienced by those in different cultures and societies to their own, it may be easily digestible.
With parent or teacher guidance on hand to facilitate important conversations on some of the more mature themes and topics raised in this memoir, a mature young teenager could both benefit from and enjoy reading this coming-of-age memoir. As always, books can provide a valuable source of dialogue between kids and their parents. I only wish more parents would take a genuine and enthusiastic interest in what their kids were reading.
For some younger teens, this might be disturbing, depending on what they have already been exposed to in their culture and environment. For others, who have already learned about certain of the harsher realities experienced by those in different cultures and societies to their own, it may be easily digestible.
With parent or teacher guidance on hand to facilitate important conversations on some of the more mature themes and topics raised in this memoir, a mature young teenager could both benefit from and enjoy reading this coming-of-age memoir. As always, books can provide a valuable source of dialogue between kids and their parents. I only wish more parents would take a genuine and enthusiastic interest in what their kids were reading.
Lacey
I was assigned this book in an English class in high school, so I would imagine yes. If I remember correctly.. there is some nudity at one point. But most teens know that genitals exist....
Amanda Rogozinski
It is relatable for teens and is not too graphic despite its war-related subject matter, but a couple chapters towards the end have adult language, so that might be a consideration.
Ale
Yes. It covers the life of author Marjane in revolutionary Iran from age six to fourteen, so it's pretty suitable.
Erica
Yep, I had to read this in 10th grade (high school).
Guenter
Volume 1 (The Story of a Childhood) is based on true events in Iran as told through the eyes of a young girl. It recounts instances of state repression, including torture and death but does not glorify the violence. I feel it is done in an understated and calm manner. If you feel that readers need to be protected from these facts then you have two options - avoid the book altogether or skip the offending chapters. This is feasible as the book is composed of separate chapters that can be enjoyed as stand alone stories. Volume 2, however, is more graphic as it depicts the life of the same girl in Paris struggling with drug addiction and associated vices.
Pearl
I'm in 8th grade and I read it for Battle of the Books so I would say yes, as long as they are somewhat mature teens.
RaeofSunshine
I think so probably around age 15 would be appropriate. It does deal with discussions of depression, suicide, and alcohol.
Sarah
I would add to the other answers that (spoiler!) it includes the author selling drugs to others, and two suicide attempts. I will allow my 14-year-old to read it if she's interested, and I have been discussing it with my 17-year old.
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