Nahid Rachlin

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One of my favorite quotes: "When it is dark enough, you can see the stars"
An ancient Persian proverb
— Nahid Rachlin

I just finished reading "Persian Girls" and I have to say that at least for me, you brought Pari back to life. I thoroughly enjoyed your book. I especially liked the excerpt from the story by Sadegh Hedayat about the stray dog. It touched me. Thank you for writing the book!
JoAnne taciturn_jo@yahoo.com
Dear JoAnne, Thank you so much for writing to me and your comments about PERSIAN GIRLS. I love hearing from my readers. I am curious about how you came across my memoir and where you live. All the best, Nahid
I thoroughly enjoyed Persion Girls. It is my wish that you will find Bijan. I will pass this book on to my granddaughter, niece, and sister as I know they will enjoy it as much i did. thank you for sharing your remarkable life story. glocrawley@yahoo.com

I just finished reading Persian Girls. I found one thing very disturbing; that is not to be able to hear about and from one's family for such long stretches of time that one hears about one's father's death a month or so after, about one's sister's death similarly, not when it happened, and same way about one's grandmother's death. It is sad, but it is true for many who come from regions that have any kind of social-political turmoil going on.
--Lalita Hogan

Dear Mrs. Rachlin,
I have finished your book entitled "Persian Girls", which I absolutely loved. I think you are a very talented writer, and the book was addictive! I fell in love with all your family, especially with Pari. She was so full of life and a fighter until the very end. I wish she was able to reunite with Bijan before her passing. I hope you find Bijan soon and you can tell him about Pari. I love the way you depict sisterhood in your book, it is such a strong bond! (I have a sister as well, and I can relate a lot to your story in that sense, she is younger than myself and sometimes I am very overprotective with her, we have a very special friendship).
Also, your book made me aware of how technology has changed our life. If back in the day there had been also access to internet and cellphones I think your story would have been different, and you would have been able to keep in touch with all your relatives.
But the character I loved more was yours. I am in a difficult period of my life. I have to decide what to do, either staying in my country without much chances of studying what I want to do, or going abroad, leaving my family behind and study what I want to study.
Sometimes I feel I won't make it, and feel scared. But reading about you and how you achieved your dream to be a writer against all odds made me be sure about my choice. I think you are a role-model for young people, especially women.
I like the way you talk about the role of women in Iran, and how you depict Iran's traditional families. I think is a topic that is very left out in other memoirs, which are normally written by people raised up in totally secular families.
I enjoyed your book very much and I will re-read it soon. Thanks for sharing your story with us, it was very inspiring and educational, and very well-written too. Renata

Dear Ms. Rachlin, I’m not sure why I am taking your time, except to say, I admire greatly your courage, the fact that you were able to commit your words to the page and the struggles that you must have endured to bring it to light for the rest of us. I feel as if I am an imposter of your teenage self, scuffing your shoes against each other, willing one foot or the other to move forward, into your father’s drawing room to meet the author. But, I am not a teenager anymore, although the heart that greeted me as a child and a teenager is still here within me, not knocking so much anymore, but resonating, in a song, a reminder, that I was a child, as all children are, pure and full of love. I read it overnight and will read it yet again.
Namaste

Dear Ms. Rachlin,
I have long been interested in the plight (or otherwise) of Middle Eastern women, so I have read Marjane Satrapi, Jean Sassoon, the Prisoner of Tehran, and others. I just finished Persian Girls, and what separates your writing from the others is the warmth that you put into the words. I felt that I could easily relate to you, even though my background and history are so different from yours. Like others, I was struck by your bravery, and I hope that you find Bijan. Maybe you have already found him? I found Pari's husband's behavior suspicious at the end of the book, but not enough to allow me to form a firm opinion of what really happened. Do you still feel like a foreigner in the US? I really responded to your feelings of being an outsider, when you first came to the US. I am American, but have been living in Canada and England for the last 10 years - I have only just now moved back, to NYC. It feels very different to me now. Anyway, thank you for sharing your story with us, and when you find Bijan, post news of it! We would like to know!
Lisa (leptotila@gmail.com)

Dear Nahid
I just want to tell you that your book(Persian Girls) touch my soul. I can't say that i'm your fan, because I just read that book(in Brazil your books are a bit expensive for a student who doesn't work), but I really admire your memoir. I konw that you may not belive, but, sometimes, I felt the pain of Pari(and yours) in my skin, in my blood, and in my heart...I'm young and I want to take you like my example of life. I am currently in crisis, because I'm 20 years old and don't know what to attend in my college, and I realized that it's nothing compared to what other women around the world suffer. I hope one day I can follow your wonderful example. Caroline

Hi, Mrs. Nahid Rachlin,
I just wanted to express my gratitude for writing such an impressive autobiography, Persian Girls. I am an Iranian girl living in Dubai, and I read the copy of your book translated into Arabic. I just finished it. It took me a very short time to finish it since I had hard time leaving the characters of the book. I'm a fan of your work now for sure, and looking foreward to read more of them in the future.
gratefully yours,
Zeinab

Nahid,
Thank you for sharing your story.
i just read your book the "persian girls".
i am just sad for what happened to your sister Pari. indeed, she is beautiful and talented.
and you are so brave enough to reach your dream.
God bless you.
Yours truly,
chien que
La Trinidad, Benguet
Philippines

Nahid,
my sister and i just read your book. you are so brave.

thank you for sharing your story.

Salom Nahid Khanoom,
I was enjoying reading your memoir, "The Persian Girls" outdoors and I just had to come back home and write you a note. I know there are multiple facets to your book, one being your relationship with your dear sister and universal concerns for us, but I just wanted to tell you how inspiring your book has been for my future aspirations. I'm a Persian girl, born in Iran but raised in Toronto, Canada. I've been an Educator for the past 10 years and recently have taken opportunities to teach abroad, mainly, in Dubai. Although, Canada is my home, I've never felt that I belong here and I feel I can make a difference in education girls back in the Middle East. At this moment, I'm reading the beginning of your journey in America, your expectations, and the "unexpected alien environment" that you walked into. I just finished reading " I built a cradel of dreams for myself". This quote is how I feel every night before I go to sleep. Although I'm fearful of leaving all the comfort of home, the freedom, and my family, I'm more dreaming of establishing a proper academy for the disadvantaged Iranian families living outside on Iran, in the Middle East. I don't remember where I picked this up from but I try to remind myself that " If you're comfortable, you're not growing" I just wanted to tell you that every emotion you went through upon your arrival to America is how I felt when I worked in the Middle East but I also have build " a cradle of dreams"
Your Admirer,
Sara Gogani
sara_g_teach@hotmail.com

I read Persian Girls, and I liked it very much. I didn't see it coming, Pari's death. I am sorry for your great loss. I liked your vivid descriptions of different people's physical appearance and demeanor, and of Tehran and Ahvaz (sp?). And your narrative of history spun through the lives of women you loved who perhaps did not have the lives they might have had.
Thanks.
Julie

Hello Nahid, How are you? I am a 16 year old Afghani boy living in Brisbane Australia. Recently I read your book called "Persian girl" I really like your book and want to ask some question about it?
Do you finally find bijan? What is your best memory?
And how you fell as a writer? I am really sorry about pari and she make the book sound lovely and interesting. Wish all best. Bye

Nahid-I just read "Persian Girls" and had to tell you what an incredible book it was! I spent all day Sunday reading into it and realizing how your life/childhood could have been that of my family. It was so intriguing to me and I have passed it on to my own daughter who is 21 today. Although she is 1/4 Assyrian, she carries her culture proudly. What a fantastic book, your life, which you have shared with the world! I am so thankful I found it and cannot wait to send copies of it to my two sisters, aunt and mother! My Nana is now 95 and legally blind, but how I wish I could read it to her. Is it available in audio? She would love it! Your Maryam reminded me of my Nana and Great Aunties. Is she still living? I pray your family is all well. I look forward to finding more of your books and just wanted to thank you for being who you are and sharing such personal memoirs! You are greatly admired by this 1/2 Assyrian girl! Best wishes! Salam

I finished Persian Girls ages ago and liked it a lot. But only recently, I finished A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, and the main character - with her love of books and her emancipatory struggles in early 20th century Brooklyn - reminded me of you a lot . Sometimes I try to imagine how I would have reacted in an age prior to gender equalty. Would I have fought like you or given in like Pari? I guess I'll never know. I never had such harsh tests to overcome. Although every country and age, I guess, has its own restrictions for girls. I always wanted to play soccer, but couldn't, because clubs only accepted boys after a certain age. My brother travelled around the world with a famous boys choir, which of course wouldn't accept a girl. Somehow, there are no famous girls choirs. And last week, on vacation in southwestern France, only male spectators got admitted to join a bullfight (a non-bloody French version) - not that I would have wanted to participate... Nina

Hi Nahid, this is HIND BENKOHILA again :)I would like to thank you a lot for answering me.i highly appreciat it. I respect your beleifs for sure.I am one of the those people who are impresed by the persian culture cos i had a visit once to IRAN i really like it and till now i remeber it and i got more attached to this memories when i read your PERSIAN GIRL. GOD bless you ,BIG SALAM to Laila I think she become a woman now :) looking forward reading other wonderful books in your name.
What a beautiful memoir. I was absorbed in your book for the past two days and was extremely moved. You are a remarkable individual and an inspiration.

Dear Ms. Rachlin,
My name is HIND BENKOHILA Iam an algerian bloger girl. I Just finished your wonderful book Persian Girls in arabic which I enjoyed reading it. I feel so much pain and i felt very bad about the death of your lovely sister Bari. To be honest also i was wondering how you accept to marry with a jew!! while you are muslim!!!! i know you will not like my question but i feel that you are my hero cos i have a lot of things like you and i had a lot of pain in my life and still i am ...
anyway i wish i can hear from you and also i willbe very happy to read other of your books.
Sincerely Hind

Dear Nahid: I just finished reading "Persian Girls." Thank you for sharing your story. I have always been puzzled by America's relations with foreign countries, particularly in the middle east. Your story shed some light on this topic. May God Bless you and your family and may your beautiful Pari rest in peace.
Brenda
Omaha, Nebraska

Hello: from ontario.
I read you book last week and it was really amazing! i read it in like 2 days because it was so good. I cant believe how hard your experences were! I am emailing you because i am really interested in politics in iran and iran in general, because i really want to live there someday and help out and do whatever i can to help the people there, but im only 16 so i need to learn some stuff about it first. So, i wanted to know if you can tell me some other things about life in iran, like the islamic regime. so please email me back soon, if you can.
--Brittany

Dear Inge, I would love to hear about your experiences in Iran, after you return. Thanks so much for your interest in my books. Nahid
Dear Nahid. I just finished your breathtaking book. Next year I hope to visit Iran with my partner. I am looking forward to it. After reading so many books about Iran I have the feeling I have been living in your country in an earlier life. Hope to read your other books on short notice. Love, Inge from The Netherlands

Dear Hadeel, Thanks for writing to me. Each person finds happiness in her or his own way. Nahid

Hi nahid
i was so happy to find your mail so quickly, i just has been finished yours novel "girls in Iran"i reed it in Arabic, alt of emotions i have with me by reading your book , in some of them i feel sympathy , and in anthers i was angry why to be free you have to leave your religion , i am Muslim girl , live in Israel m have married with my love , finished a M.A degree when i was 24 , i am working have a family , and up of all of that i am with "higab" pray and believe in Allah , i chose to stay with the religion and to be a strong , educated woman . and really from all the story what make me angry that you have married with Jewish man ,why ... best regards, hadeel

Nahid,
I just finished your book Persian Girls. I loved it. I am an Iranian American that has not been back to Iran in decades. I have married an American. I related with your book in so many ways. I had heard stories about my cousins and friends being forced into marriages and ending up depressed. I promised myself that I would not marry an Iranian because I had seen first hand the lies that were told before marriage. My husband bought your book for me because he could tell that I miss my roots. I am terrified to return to Iran. My father lives in Tehran and often comes to visit. I was in Iran when Saddam was bombing residences. That was not a good time for me to be there. There are more personal ways I relate to your book but I get too depressed thinking about it. I want to thank you for sharing your story and hope to meet you someday. I have often wanted to write a book but was too afraid to hurt the feelings of those I love deeply. Again thank you, I really enjoyed your book. P

Dear Mrs. Nahid Rachlin, My name is Simone Ramirez. I'm currently a senior at Carlsbad High school. I was assigned to read your memoir, Persian Girls, which i ended up loving. You are an inspiring women, and after reading your book, you have become a new role model for me. For my English class i was assigned some projects based about your book. One of them is to make a 10 page scrapbook, containing pictures, symbols, extra, all through the eyes of one character. I hoped to find some pics of you and your family on the internet, but i was unsuccessful. i know your a busy woman, but if there was anyway you could send me some pictures or give me a link that has some. i would be extremely grateful. thank you so much, ~Simone Ramirez email: little_simone@yahoo.com

I just finished reading your book Persian Girls. I
couldn't put it down once I started. What an
incredibly touching and warm story it is. I enjoyed
it. Well done. I wish you well in your future
writings. You have a special pen. Keep it up.
Warm regards. James

Dear Nahid, I just read your book and I enjoyed it so much. I could not put it down until I finished. I am from Iran and I know the situation in Iran, past and now. I wrote this note to appreciate your work and ask a question about spelling some words like Khanoon, aghond and farah zar?

Hi, So sorry that I missed your course at the New School. When will you be teaching in New York again? Do you give private lessons? Best regards, Rosalie Brinn, Rosubird@aol.com

Thank you for writing a memoir that touches our hearts as women. When I see a woman wearing a chador I have a respect and understanding that I didn't feel before reading your book. It helps us all when we have the opportunity to learn about different cultures, religion and countries. I admire your courage!

Dear Ms. Nahid, I want to say Thanks.
My name is Meagan and I am wanting to remark on the book "Persian Girl". I first saw your book on the shelves of Chapters Book Store. I didn't have a pen or paper on me, so I thought I could remember the title. Unfortunely I forgot the title, so I went back and described the photo on the front. I knew if I was meant to read it, someone would remember the book. Sure enough they did, and I knew it be great. I read it in two days. Thank-you for writing this book. It teach others how other people from different countries. This book and you will be in my favorites reading material for sometime. I asked my library to get more of your books. Meagan

Dear Ms. Rachlin, I want to tell you how much I enjoyed your book, “Persian Girls”. I am an avid reader and have never read a “memoir” that has compared with it. I simply could not put the book down. I promptly ordered your other books. You are to be commended for all that you have accomplished.
Joan

Dear Nahid, My mother picked up a copy of 'Persian Girls' on her latest trip to the US this year. I couldn't bear to put it down until I had finished it in 24 hours, just yesterday as a matter of fact. I identified so much with the mixture of conservative and modern upbringing you described, and also your loneliness and social confusion as a foreigner in the US. The latter was one of the reasons I chose to leave the US, abandoning my permanent residence application that I had worked towards for a decade. I was just so torn with my identity, and my mind was forever with my family overseas that I just had to go back home. I haven't decided where to go from here, but I'll know when it's time. I am also a writer, and recently was given the task of writing a children's book about the ancient Persian Empire. The more I researched the topic, the more I stood in awe of Iran's ancient heritage. It has become a dream of mine to stand before Cyrus's tomb and to touch the giant reliefs in the ruins of Persepolis, Susa, and Pasagardae. A couple of years ago I was at the Met in NYC, and I had the chance to stroll through the Mesopotamian section of the museum. I felt so small in front of the stone reliefs they had imported from Iraq. I touched the stone wall and wondered about the nameless hands that had sculpted it so many years ago. It felt like a comforting handshake at a place where all time felt like one instant. I hope and pray that you find your nephew. You've probably looked everywhere but have you tried social networking sites like Facebook, MySpace, Orkut, Friendster, and LinkedIn? How about plain and simple Googling? I've found all kinds of people just through these techniques. I don't have any sisters, but I have a friend from my high school days that was my only lifeline in the US, and I probably would not have survived without her, even though we ended up living in separate parts of the country. I, too, pray that my destiny will keep the both of us nearby, although the electronic age nowadays has made it so much easier to keep in touch, but somedays you just need a good hug to be rescued from falling apart. I hope you find your nephew, I feel that the both of you have common sorrows that only the other can heal. Khadija


Dear Nahid khanoon,
I'am Kavish Pershad from holland, my english is not good, my apologize. I have read your book " persian girls". I was in my night shift. I don't cry easely but when I read your book I have cry.
When I told my colleugue about the book, he is also from Iran, he was quiet. He is also witness about the terrible things that happends in Iran.
I have a wife and two childeren, my parents and most of my family life in holland, original we are from India, but we have lived in Surinam.
I' am proud to see that you are a independent women and believe my you are strong, and you are happy wiht your husbund and daugther. You have earn it.
I hope that your mother Maryam and Mohtaram makes it good. Also I hope you find Pari son Bijan.

Dear Nahid,
I read your book “Persian Girls”. It was so gripping and beautifully written. I’m a lifelong New Yorker. Some years ago, I had a Persian boyfriend, so my opportunities for insights into Iranian culture were slightly more heightened than the average American. I’m contacting you because your writing was truly meaningful and left its mark on me as a human being.
I thought you should get feedback from this reader, just so you know that the profundity of your work is real and realized by others. Thank you. Amie

Dear Ms. Rachlin, among other things, I love your voice in Persian Girls-- it is soft yet intense. You give perspective, not just on a changing Iran, but on the aching difficulties you faced in the United States. Thank you for sharing your life with us. Janis

Hello Ms. Rachlin. My name is Bria Howard and I am a 10th grader who attends Abington Friends School. I just finished reading Persian Girls due to an independent study studying women's culture and the struggles women go through in different societies and parts of the world due to the restraint of men, power, religion, or a combination of the three. I completely fell in love with your story, and it touched me so much to see the struggle that you endured and how you overcame the ultimate struggle in a place that left no wiggle room. In certain parts of the memoir, I felt your story had some direct reflections that I go through as a young girl, whether it be the elationship with my mother, and this sort of of on going need to be something outside the guidelines that are indefinitely written for all of us by our culture, family, and the society. I felt a pride that you made to a place where most girls growing up in your culture didn't, and yet still had to battle the issues that are made in the greater society. If you aren't too busy, I'd be really excited if you wrote back, because I've never read a book that touched me in this way. Bria

Dear Nahid Rachlin,


My name is Ashley O'Neill. After just finishing your memoir, Persian Girls, I felt so compelled to email you. First of all, I just want to say what an amazing writer you are as well as an inspiration for my writing. I feel as if I was literally pulled into your past and experienced it all right there with you--I even cried from the losses and bittersweet endings of the different relationships throughout the book. I also want to thank you for revealing some of the more confusing aspects of Iran's history and culture--you eloquently weaved a history lesson into your own personal story! I have been fascinated with Iranian culture and have even been attempting to learn Farsi. I just feel like I need to know more; my heart feels so heavy at the thought of you and Pari never finding Bijan. I am aspiring to be a writer as well, so I had this inkling that you will actually email me back--I would be so honored to actually carry on a conversation with you. Well, thank you again for creating an honest piece of artwork for almost anyone to discover. Sincerely,
Ashley

Hi Ms. Nahid Rachlin, I just want to be brief, because I have so much to say. I love your Book the Persian Girls. You opened up my eyes to a whole new world of a vibrant culture rich in its own essence. I love the book so much, i never thought i would be as interested as to email you and let you know that your book moved me dramatically. We are two strangers, you from Persia/Iran, and me from Jamaica. We are also of different cultures as well as of different generation. I am 23 years young. The way you wrote/present your book made me feel as if we known each other from a different time/life.
With peace and love
Amifika

Hello Nahid: I have a hard time putting "Persian Girls" down and can't wait for my work day to end so I can pick it up again. I'd love to give the book to my mother in law. She reads English, but it would be much easier for her to read in Farsi. Is there a Farsi version availabe by chance? -Amy, Portland, OR

Dear Amy, Thanks for writing to me. Unfortunately it isn't available in Farsi. My books never pass the censorship in Iran. Nahid

Dear Mrs. Rachlin,
I just finished reading your book "Persian girls" and I'm very , very impressed about it. Since two years I have a friend in Iran, Im from Belgium (Europe). Her name is Homa and she lives in Mashad. Lot of the things you tell in youre book makes me think about her. I really hope that one day the living conditions in Iran will get better, but it amazes me that some things you wrote in youre book, Ive heard it from her too, that some things are still the same. Anyway Iran is still a fascinating country to me and I hope to visit it soon. Thank you very much for youre impressive book, I wish you and your family a good live and health and success in whatever you are doing. Huysman Belgium

Dear Nahid,
I just finished reading you book, while reading i went through many phases, I cried, smiled and sighted..All whats written was really touchy
describing how are women in Islam being treated in a very rough way although the world has changed & the situation is much different in Kuwait than Iran, yet, there are many facts that are just the similar to what we have & face. bless you, I wish you all the best for you & ur family. May god rest our beloved ones in peace hoping to meet them in some other life
Fatima

Dear Nahid,
I’ve read Persian Girls. In this time of the memoir, when I begin books and then put them down (because I’m more and more choosy), yours spoke to me beginning with an image on the second page of sleeping under mosquito net on the roof and looking at stars, an image which reminds me of my grandmother—the woman in my family to whom I was closest.
As the book unfolded and more and more threads appeared and wove into the narrative, I became more deeply drawn to the work, and, more importantly, I felt it fed me. It fed that part of me that needs the nourishment of truths, truths that in the hands of a less careful writer might carry less nourishment. And I was not simply reading about women’s lives in another culture. I was reading about human lives, about living a life. The women’s relationships and their predicaments drew me, and then in addition, one of the most compelling aspects of the work was that the men in the book, men who made the lives of women fraught and difficult, these men also suffered, though differently. I feel blessed now, full of your good food! Marilyn

Hello Nahid, I've read your book in Dutch, and I was really moved by your story. I could really feel it. I've no islamic background, just plain dutch. I feel I must write to you and compliment you for your writing. I also (just like the other dutch woman) read Kader Abdollah and I was also moved by his books. Like I'm in the story. Is it in your genes? The way of writing is like poetry to me. With kind regards, Marjan Vermuyen

Dear Nahid,
Hope you are doing great! My name is Ms Indu Raja, based in New Jersey. I read your book 'Persian Girls'. The book is so truthful and heart wrenching. I am almost in tears.... Wishing you all the very best!
Please keep writing!!! Best Regards, Indu

Nahid,
I just finished reading your memoir and found your email on your website so that I could send you a note. I feel I have visited Iran as I read the story and could imagine all of the characters. You write beautifully and gave me a glimpse into your culture. Although I read this book as part of a class assignment , I plan to seek your other works because I enjoyed your writing so well.
Jill

Dear Mrs. Rachlin, It was great reading your book 'Persian Girls' (in Dutch), especially because I grew up in Ahwaz too. My mother is Dutch, father Persian, and I had a quite modern upbringing, but I know what Iran is like. It was a wonderful book! By the way, can we expect any readings in Holland? There's a wonderful Iranian writer in Holland, his name is Kader Abdolah, a friend of ours. He writes beautifully, have you read any of his books? Regards, Mandana Stip-Akhbari, Holland

Nahid-I finished reading your book about a half hour ago and just had to share with you how deeply moved I was! The book was a wonderful tribute to your sister (as well as to your Mother and other family members) and so powerful; in the emotional content as well as the historical accounting.
Thank you, I wish you all the best!
Julia Cunningham

Dear Nahid, The cover of your book caught my eye in my local library. I am so glad to have picked it up, as your story really touched me. Take care. Kindest regards, Kelly from Australia

Nahid, I just finished Persian Girls and just feel compelled to write. I have to tell you, when I first saw the picture of your dear sister Pari-----I was moved by the fact of how much she does remind me of Judy Garland....the same glow in her eyes. She was very strikingly beautiful. I am sorry for your loss.
The last sentence of the book was especially heart breaking , but understandable. Have you still never found her son? When I read the letter he wrote her- I was beside myself ....How sad and ironic. God be with him. I truly hope your life is now one of ease and peace. (your picture shows a happy looking woman, unlike the sad one of your childhood ! ) I would like to add one thing more; I was glad you decided to share your family photos in the book, because it really helped me to feel like I understood them more.
A grateful reader,
Tracey

Dear Nahid... your book "Persian girls" is wonderfull. thanx to get that book to the world. I have sure that your history and your experience of life gave hope to many people... My name is Ricardo Valverde, and I´m a brazilian writer... bye

Nahid: I just finished reading your memoir and wanted you to know how thoroughly I enjoyed it. What a fascinating life you have had! I couldn’t put it down – its beautifully written and fascinating subject matter. Congratulations! Best regards, Ruth.

Hello:
Will you please let me know if your book, "Persian girls", has been translated into Farsi? I have thoroughly enjoyed your book and would like a Farsi translation for the "Maryam" in my life.
Nadia

Hello Nahid,
I just read your book Persian Girls, I must tell you that I really liked it.I started yesterday en couldn't stop reading. Thank you for writing, i'm glad that you have had the change to use your talent.
Kind regards, Astrid de Wit (from the Netherlands)
P.S. have you found Bijan?

Dear Nahid I just finished reading Persian Girls A beautiful written book of your love for your sister Pari I just read some of the comments and am relieved you finally have found Bijan which is one of the questions I was going to ask However hoping that in finding Bijan you and he can come to terms with the loss of someone who was very dear to both of your hearts I too lost a sister to tragedy many years ago and her daughter whom I have a wonderful relationship is a continuous blessing Wishing for you and Bijan the same. Sincerely Shelley Carrington Calgary Alberta Canada

Ms. Nahid,
I found your book extremely captivating. Iran no longer seems like a far away, incomprehensible land...you really brought the realities of your life home in this touching, moving memoir. Linda

Nahid, I'm enthralled reading Persian Girls and I think of what bravery and determination you had in shaping your life, plus deciding and succeeding to write in English. best regards, Helen

Dear Ms. Rachlin,
Just finished Persian Girls and wanted to tell you how very much I enjoyed reading it. Your writing made me feel so much about your experiences. I felt like I was with you on your journey. Thank you so much. I wish you much continued success and the very best of luck.
Sincerely,
(Ms.) Lee

Hi, I am emailing out of desperation as I had a guest over this weekend who introduced me to your recent book "Persian Girls", which I began reading but was unable to finish as my guest left tonight with her book! Besides for the inherent captivating quality of the book, I am particularly interested in it as my husband comes from a Persian family and it is very insightful and practically helpful to understand the root of certain values and expectations in his family (and him). I was up to page 186 and then managed to read some pages online from amazon until page 198 (but copyright laws prevent me from reading more) and now I am determined to read the rest. Unfortunately, our library is not open on Sun. and we have a religious holiday through Thurs. during which time I cannot go to stores/libraries to search for and buy your book (I really do not want to wait 5 more days!)...I am trying to search for a downloadable version online that I can pay for as I only have until tomorrow to search. Any ideas? Rachel

Dear Nahid: In first place...sorry for my english! It's not good. My name is Íris and I'm 17 years old. I'm from Brazil. I'm sending a mensage for you because I loved your book "Persian Girls". "Garotas da Pérsia", in Portuguese. Your history is wonderful! I cried a lot. My reality is totally diferent, but I don't know explain, you and your book gave me HOPE that everything's gonna be alright. The life is not easy here in Brazil. It's my dream to study in U.S.A or in another country. I'm 17 and I don't have experience, so it's hard to get a job. But I want to start the university and find a good job to save money and finally study outside of Brazil. I hope to get that in 6 or 7 years, but I will. Thank you for the book! I don't know if you have others book, but in Brazil it's just one. But I hope to read another book from you to give me more and more hope! Take care..and thank you again. iris

hi nadid joon i enjoyed your lovely book (persian girls) i am 25 from toronto on my bread one i went to indigo and saw your book i was not looking to purchase anything but i am happy that i found your book please come to toronto we would love to have you here Love you Fatima fro toronto

Dear Ms. Rachlin, I,m Karin Veldman from the Netherlands, and I just read you're book: Persian girls. I wish you, and your family, in the U.S.A and in Iran all the best!!! And I hope to read more from you. Sincerely, Karin

Hello Nahid, How are you? My name is Antonella and I am from Brazil. I don't know if you are going to read this e-mail... but... I read your book "Persian Girls" and it is great!!! I just loved it. I would like to congratulate you because your story is amazing and touching. My sincerely congrats to you. I always read books about the arabic culture and islamism because I am so curious about that.. I have travelled a lot and I have enjoyed arabic countries (I know that Iran speak persian and not arabic). I have met some persian girls when I went to Cuba last year and they had such a beautiful heart and I could see a lot in their eyes.. we became great friends. And the way you write always make me want to read more to know what is coming next. You can be sure that I will look for your other books, because I already know they must be great. I saw that you teach in New York, that must be great. I want to teach also, next year I am going to do my master degree, of course I wanted to do it in Europe, but I can't right now live my job and go. Writing is also my passion and someday maybe I will have a published book too.. and that is why I wrote you because I could see your love for writing... You may think I am crazy, but I think Pari is so proud of you and your work. Your devotion for her is openly shown in this book... wherever she is, she is watching you. And once more, congrats on your book and on your life... because you had the courage to leave all behind to find yourself and persuade your dreams. I am a huge fan! Kindly Regards,

Nahid: It was my lucky day when I bought your book Persian Girls. I could not put the book down. You wrote a beautiful book in your memoirs. Learning about the life you led in Iran was so enlightening. I started to write my life story born in the lower east side of New York but I am not quite as articulate as you are. Do you ever get to Orlando, Florida to give workshop classes? It would be an honor to meet you and learn from you. Sincerely, Martha

hi my name is sara aziz .i live in australia,i just finished your book(persian girls)i have been tuched by you some time i thought u talking about my filling about my family .i cried for (PAri)s death.i wished she could see her (BIJAN).and i wish to see him ,why ?i dont know.if u wanna send me an email (sarafroozan@yahoo.com.au)please if u have a time ia wanna be your friend,

Nahid, I wanted to say thank you very much, I did not have a great childhood. And because of that I kept a lot of things held inside, I am full blooded Italian and my family was very strict, I did not dare cross my father, if I did I knew that the belt was coming out, I would not be able to sit for at least two days, I had so many dreams that were unfilled, Now I am 32 and I look back on my life there were so many things that I wanted to do with my education, But I was not allowed. Then I went to the bookstore and discovered one of your books, you are a brilliant and honest writer, and because of you I started to come out of my shell slowly. Again thank you Angela

Ms. Rachlin:
My spouse gave me your memoir and I just devoured it. I've been a feminist since I was in 6th grade in the early 1970's. I so admire your strength and your determination to fulfill your dream to be a writer is a gift to so many. You probably know that most Americans are used to happy endings, even those of us that are critical of American culture and politics have a hard time escaping that. I am glad that you have reached a better place with regard to Moktaram and Manijeh. Thanks so much for putting her life out there for the world to see. Especially in these times when the US government wants to paint Iran in a one-dimensional way, your writing makes it possible for your readers, and the people who hear you on the radio etc. to get a deeper appreciation of Iranian culture and understanding of the complexities of the country.
Robin Schneider
Austin TX

Mrs. Nahid Rachlin,
I just finished reading your book, Persian Girls, and really enjoyed it.. It was difficult for me to put the book down. I just wanted to let you know that you have done a great job! I plan on reading other books written by you!
Thanks!
Saima Rizvi

Hello Nahid, I'm a believer in fate and I was just meant to be attracted to your book. I don't know if I'll be able to come to the Book Signing on 9/26th, but if I do get there you'll recognize me as the person who's book looks so beat up from carrying it with me everywhere until I finished it. :) I'm happy to read here that Bijan did find you. Now maybe he can be your inspiration for your next book, by telling his story maybe you can help him and more of course. Thank you for sharing your story and I will read more of your books soon. Emily Pereira (NJ)PS Even the kids refer to your book as "Mommy's purple book" because they have seen it around the house & out with me so much. hahaha.

hi my name is Lori, I live in Ontario, Canada. I have 100 pages remaining (Persian Girls) and I am tempted to read slowly - it is all I have remaining of your words. Every story will come to an end and I am afraid I will be left wanting more... I hope that you are working on the next great book and I will be waiting. I have truly enjoyed reading all of your books and felt it was important to tell you that your writing is powerful, moving and difficult to tear oneself away from. I am an artist and writer but when i am reading your work everything is placed aside for awhile. Thank you for what you have given the world. If i sound dramatic i apologize, but I am sincere.

hi Ms. Nahid, Great painful story,. i enjoy reading it, i don't know if proper to ask this question, but i am wondering are you still Muslim, Rakan

Hi,
I usually don't read books unless I have to. My friend gifted me this book (Persian Girls) and I have to tell you after reading the first chapter, I really got hooked on to it. The experience, the tragedies, etc that you been through, hats off to you. I just want to let you know that I really like the book.
Natasha Sipani

Dear Mrs.Rachlin, I just wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed reading "Persian Girls". Having grown up myself as an Iranian outside of the country, I could relate a lot to your feelings of "unwantedness" in the States. Are you going to come to Toronto by any time soon? Please continue sharing your stories with us because they are much apprectiated. Hanieh K. Toronto,Canada

Nahid,
I am actually Canadian but have lived abroad- both in Africa and oceania for several years of my adult life- involved in development-type work (mostly health). I suppose my life has not been that remarkable, but I have been through some very difficult things in my family, and had to make some heartbreaking choices about love and relationships...like whether to stay in them or leave, whether to follow my heart or my committments ...and none have been easy. I think your book acknowledges these painful kinds of decisions and that they are complex rather than black and white. When we reach "forks in the road" we must choose, and we can never know what the result would have been had we chosen the other route. This is not a knowledge we are given. Sometimes we choose to pull up anchor, so to speak. Sometimes we choose to stay the course and know that while in some ways it makes no sense, there will be something there for us, the unanticipated joys and surprises ... I really felt like the story you shared was so pure and good because it told the truth without having to necessarily pull it together artificially. The nature of this life speaks for itself. And the love of sisters is something that is very much part of my experience- it is a sustaining source of strength amidst pain and darkness. I have also been struggling with how much of my story to tell- for my own sake, and so that those I love know more of me. Your book has helped in that process too- seeing your vulnerability and courage. Donna


Dear Nahid, This is the first time I have ever written to an author- and I have read quite a few books I have loved. But in your memoir "Persian Girls" it seems you have shared such an intimate and vulnerable part of yourself, in telling the story of yourself and your dear sister- you need to know that it has has touched many of us deeply, and helped us in our own journeys .Even though the book opens a window to another cultural context for those of us not from Iran (or the US), I found the themes so universal and the reflections wound within the pages raw and true, and at times profound. Life and relationships are so full of complications, compromises, contradictions, ironies...and thankfully, love. You have captured this in a way that is pure and unpretentious. Thank you for sharing your story- it is healing for us to share in your healing....and inspires us to tell our own stories. Donna

I am a 23 yrz old Pakistani girl living in Dubai, here I came across your book "Persian Girls"
I lived all the scenes with you....i dreamt with you and Bari, i loved Maryam, i felt as if Bari was my
very own sister, i envied Maneijah, i felt your pain when your father took you from Maryam....
i was very deeply touched by the book. i Miss Bari alot.... May her soul rest in peace... i feel all
her sufferings would definitely be rewarded in the life hereafter.
i wonder if u found your nephew Beijan??? Amina Rahim

Nahid, I just wanted to add my own comment to the other appreciative ones. I found Persian Girls at the feminist bookstore here while I was browsing, and I'm glad I picked it up. I love memoirs, because they're the next best thing to actually sitting down with someone and hearing his/her life story and interpretation. Your book is more important than most people realize right now, especially for humanizing Iran to the average media-washed American. Wish I could meet you...come to Texas someday? Meredith O, Austin, TX

Dear Nahid Rachlin,
I recently read your book Persian Girls and was so touched by the emotion in the book, that it cast a spell over me, as so few books do. I wish that the book was required reading for the people in this country who support the continuation of the 'war' in Iraq. I remember well the Iranian hostage crisis and the reign of the Ayatollah Kohmeni. To my disbelief, almost everybody I ask does not remember this time. I am not so old, and it was not so long ago. I watched with horror on 9/11 as the twin towers were attacked. I was also horrified as I listened to President W. Bush give his ultimatum to Saddam Hussein. I continue to be horrified as I watch innocent Iraquis suffer and die, and our own young troops suffer, die, or return home unbearably hurt in body or mind from a war against an unidentified enemy. I think, does anyone remember Korea, or Viet Nam? Clearly, attacking foreign countries is not going to stop terrorism in any country, but perhaps negotition will.
I was struck as I read your book that my divorce a few years ago did not leave me in any better condition than some of the women in your book. My husband ordered me to leave the house and family one morning without warning. Because he had planned in advance and in secrecy, he had the upper hand in the divorce and to my everlasting sorrow, became the custodial parent of our three children, while I was awarded 'visitation rights' to the children I had raised from birth to maturity. In effect, I was treated by the court as many divorced fathers are in this country. Because I obeyed and left, not realizing that legally I did not have to, but scared because he had already called the police on me several days earlier while we were arguing, the court assumed that I had 'abandoned' my children and home. I have to mention, because this matters so much to me, that I had a hysterectomy nine days before he made his well calculated move. Our kids are still angry and acting out and I feel like a displaced person, grasping for footing on unstable terrain. I did not write you because I want to bore you with the details of my personal life. Your book inspired me to write an email to my ex in a much different manner than my usual defensive one. His mode of parenting reminded me of your father's attitude, so different to his daughters from his sons. My daughters are 15 year old twins, and he bullies them as he did me, and favors our son. They so crave my unconditional love and affection which I gave them boundlessly when I lived with them and continue to as best I can. I cannot speak to my hated ex-husband, so we commicate through emails and disagree about everything that has to do with the kids. Ordinarily I am insulting, defensive, and rude in my communication, but after reading your book, I wrote the attached email, meant to be ironic, which I am sure was lost on him, only to realize that I had written a poem somewhat like the ones translated from Farsi in your book. I do not make a habit of writing to authors and asking them to read what I have written, but I feel that you are approachable and understanding. My lifelong dream is to be a published author--a dream that remains unfulfilled due to my lack of effort. I am sending you the attached poem in tribute of your fine book and the words it prompted me to write.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Nancy Bell

Dear Nahid, I JUST READ PERSIAN GIRLS AND FELL IN LOVE WITH IT. I FIND ALOT OF SIMILARITIES IN YOUR LIFE AS MINE AS I AM FROM SAUDI MUSLIM BACKGROUND GREW UP IN AMERICA... YOU ARE SUCH A TALENTED WRITER AND WILL ENCOURAGE YOU TO KEEP WRITING! TAKE CARE.
Rachel

I just finished Persian Girls - it's so great & inspiring & smart & true about the actuals conflict between independence/family, staying/leaving - all of that. Thank you very much for that book. I am planning to make all my sisters read it. Elinor

dear nahid,


You are a great lady. As a great writer I love you and your books very much. I am also a writer of a book, "The Unfathomable Vastness of God"". Please remian in touch with me. I shall take you in my list as a great scholar. you are always welcome here and there.

regards,

yours, khan.waiting!!!!!!!! peace to all.""