59 pages • 1 hour read
Prisoner of Tehran
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Book Brief
336
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
Tehran, Iran • 1980s
2007
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Prisoner of Tehran by Marina Nemat is a memoir that recounts her experiences in an Iranian prison post-1979 revolution, emphasizing political and ideological repression. It details the severe constraints women endured under the authoritarian regime, Nemat's survival in Evin Prison facing torture and psychological torment, and her resilience and struggle for autonomy upon release, ending with her immigration to Canada. This book contains detailed depictions of torture, political repression, and emotional trauma.
Dark
Emotional
Challenging
Mysterious
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
14,957 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Marina Nemat’s Prisoner of Tehran is a compelling memoir that offers a stark look at life under Iran's oppressive regime, praised for its vivid storytelling and emotional depth. Critics highlight its importance for raising awareness, though some note it can be emotionally intense and question the pace. Overall, it's lauded for its courageous and eye-opening narrative.
Who Should Read Prisoner of Tehran?
Readers who are captivated by personal memoirs set against politically charged backdrops, such as Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi or Reading Lolita in Tehran by Azar Nafisi, will find Marina Nemat's Prisoner of Tehran compelling. It's ideal for those interested in human rights, survival stories, and the resilience of the human spirit.
14,957 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Ali Moosavi
Ali Moosavi
An interrogator at Evin Prison whose complex relationship with Marina includes saving her from execution, creating a dynamic that intertwines captor and savior roles.
Andre
Andre
Marina's first love, symbolizing the innocence and normalcy of her life before her arrest and the Iranian Revolution.
Arash
Arash
A figure from Marina's past representing youthful affection and normalcy, whose tragic fate underscores the personal cost of political upheaval.
336
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
Tehran, Iran • 1980s
2007
Adult
18+ years
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