Bookclub Assignment: Persepolis

Now that we’ve read the book, it is time to respond to the ideas in it. One of the things I really enjoy about this text is how we can relate to so much of what we read in Persepolis simply because we grew up. However, since we’re international students we also have a lot of experiences with the difficulty of adjusting to a different culture, difficulties in communicating in a second language and many others.  You may have even witnessed political/societal changes that helped influence the person you’ve become.

Word Doc Version (includes graphic organizers)

Story Project (50 points)

For this assignment, I would like you to pick a moment in the book that you 1) really enjoyed (perhaps your favorite) and 2) an important theme. Pick a theme that also relates to your experiences. Then, similar to what Marjane Satrapi (Marji) did in Persepolis, tell your story. This experience can be similar, different or something in-between.  But the idea here is the story influences you to reflect on experiences in your life.

You can tell your story in any medium that will showcase your interests and talents. For example, if you like to draw and consider yourself an artist, you can use the “comic” approach Satrapi did for her story. Or you may make a video. Or write a journal entry explaining what happened to you at that time. Or you can make a speech. Anything!  Consult the list at the end of this assignment sheet for ideas if you need.

The requirements are that it:

·         Is created for an English-speaking audience (though, like Satrapi, you can bring in your native language in small doses if it helps you communicate your message)

·         Shows a connection to the text

·         Shows craft and investment – meaning it wasn’t made in one night!

·         Tells a story based on a theme about something you’ve experienced.

This assignment is designed to be fun, rigorous, enlightening and fun (yes, I said it again). I will be providing models, ideas and graphic organizers to help you understand the project and inspire your best possible work.

The Reflection (10 points)

In addition to your story, you will write a reflection that helps me bridge your project to the reading. Below are the prompts I want you to consider.

·         What was your favorite moment from the book and why?

·         How did the moment you pick in Persepolis inspire your project? Meaning, why are you telling this story and how does it relate to the book?

·         Describe another moment in the book you thought was interesting or compelling.

·         To whom would you recommend this book and why? If you wouldn’t recommend it to anyone, please explain why.