The Tales from the Zirzameen

Hey Brian,

I got your book and finished reading it this weekend. I couldn’t put it down! I’m truly impressed. Hai fatto bene, figliolo! You write well, and your vivid descriptions and attention to detail are superb.The photographs were great and were a wonderful addition to your commentary. You need to somehow publicize the book, not only within the Iranian-American community, but to a wider public. I’m not sure how you do that; send it to the New York Times book review or Obama or something. My opinion is that you’ve not only written an interesting book, but you’ve performed a public service by calling to attention the fact that Iranians are loving and interesting people with a rich cultural heritage. It’s a far cry from the image of Iranians that is portrayed in the media.

George

2nd review:

Great book – fun read!, March 1, 2009
By J. Afshar

Tales from the Zirzameen is a must read for all Iranian-Americans and a fun read for everyone else. It recounts the context within which the Islamic revolution of 1979 unfolded and the drastic changes it brought about. The book is fun to read and it flows very nicely.

Amidst all the negative sentiments for Iran, it is so refreshing to see Brian Appleton’s fascination and love for the Iranian culture and society. I hope many Americans will read Tales from the Zirzameen to acquire a different viewpoint through which they can get to know the generosity and compassion of the Iranian people.

I thank Brian Appleton (aka Rasool Ariadust) for his great contribution to the improvement of American-Iranian relations.