Jasmine and Stars

“Extremely valuable as a personal testimony of [Keshavarz’s] own experiences growing up in Iran and provides a counterbalance to Nafisi’s dark portrayal of her life in Iran. . . . Important . . . because of its active participation in the debate about how Western views of Middle Eastern countries are colored by prejudice and stereotyping.” — Middle East Journal

“Narrated in a very engaging and evocative style, embellished with poetic force. This personal story is told in a direct narrative form which transcends the boundaries of telling and showing.” — Muslim World Book Review

“It is not necessary to have read Reading Lolita in Tehran to appreciate the thrust of [Keshavarz’s] argument, which challenges the popular notion that Iran is an oppressive, joyless, intellectually stagnant place, particularly for women. . . . Controversial, certainly, but an excellent counterpoint for book-group discussions of Nafisi’s book.” — Booklist

“Introduces . . . Iranian women writers, with infectious enthusiasm, to western readers. . . . Suffused with references to pomegranates, fragrant gardens, Sufi mysticisim, and tender father-daughter relationships . . . [ Jasmine and Stars] exude[s] . . . charm.” — MELUS

“Introduces ordinary Iranians and a universal spirit we all share.” — Washington University in St.Louis Magazine

“A balanced, objective perspective on Iran, a perspective that provides nuanced depth and humanity. . . . A great read. ” — People’s Weekly World

“Draws from her own rich experiences and illustrates wonderfully rich portraits of her family and close friends. . . . Assures readers that every word is wholly heartfelt and sincere.” — Arab American News

“Eye opening. . . . Keshavarz gives a rare glimpse into post-revolutionary Iran, showing that while there are a host of political problems and unresolved social issues, still literature, culture and Iranians' love of life and beauty are alive and well.” — The Jordan Times

“Those interested in extended analysis of Nafisi’s work will be interested in this book, especially the last section dedicated exclusively to RLT.” — MESA Bulletin

“The image of Iranian women as pitiable victims will not survive publication of Jasmine and Stars. The rich stories at the heart of this book are a testament to the power of culture in shaping today’s world, and to the role of women in creating that culture. Drawing from both literature and memory, they depict a vibrant, complex society eager for a new relationship with the outside world.” — Stephen Kinzer, author of All the Shah’s Men: An American Coup and the Roots of Middle East Terror