Persepolis

Sartrapi, M. (2004). Persepolis. NY: Pantheon.

Persepolis is a coming of age story of Marjane.  However, hers is different because Marjane lives in Iran. She is forced to wear a veil and is separated from the boys.  Marjane is very independent and outspoken.  She is growing up in a place of war, political unrest, and killings.  Marjan takes solace in her books.  She loves to read. Eventually, her family sends her to Vienna after Marjane becomes extremely rebellious.  She soon returns home, but realizes that she cannot live as a subservient female. She decides to leave Iran again for good realizing that she needs her freedom, though it comes at a price. This story would be paired well with the biography I Am Malala.  Both girls are young, but
strong and independent. They both value education and wish for women to be treated equally.