I'll Be Strong for You

1

Négar Djavadi

This book accomplishes the amazing feat of allowing each of us to recognize a bit of ourselves in its characters, despite being firmly set in Iran. It is filled with realistic and touching portraits that show just how much we have in common with each other, despite our differences, beyond identities and borders. It is unembellished writing which touches upon the essential and causes a multitude of emotions to spring forth. Bravo as well to the translator, Poupeh Missaghi, for the fluidity of the storytelling.

2

Lila Azam Zanganeh

Nothing short of extraordinary. A born enchanter in her native land—Iran—makes landfall on our shores. I couldn’t stop reading once I began, and remained, forever, as if on the threshold of her dreams.

3

Porochista Khakpour

I’ve heard lots of buzz about Nasim Marashi’s debut novel, and after readingI’ll Be Strong for You, I am happy to know all the hype was deserved! Marashi delivers this story of three young women in Iran over two seasons with astonishing accuracy, empathy, and artistry. Their dilemmas are both small and large—the intimacy here is also uniquely universal in its predicament. I am glad we have Marashi as our guide here through this journey into the real soul of Iranian life today.

4

Parisa Reza

I’ll Be Strong for Youis a beautiful story of friendship and love, rendered in the context of Iran. At once universal and specific to Iranian familial and social culture, written with an elegant and true pen, it is an extremely endearing novel. The kind of book that one never wishes to finish.”