Nahid Rachlin

Click and type in a question or comment

Dear Ms. Rachlin,
Thank you for sharing your time with us at dinner. Your reading of Persian Girls will be with us for a long time. Gratefully yours, Andrew Alexander, Architect and MFA student, WCSU, Danbury,CT.

Dear Andrew, great hearing from you. I really enjoyed sharing a dinner with you and exchanging ideas, etc. Good luck with your writing. Nahid

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

Nahid: I enjoyed your story Bijan. Your themes of maternal and cultural dislocation are, as always, very powerful. It seemed to me, that Bijan
was almost in a trance state upon his return to Iran seeking a unity and wholeness that continue to elude him. He strives for the lost union and then abruptly comes alive to the reality of his life in America. There seems to be no convincing answer to his eternal division. In some ways, I can't help think that your theme mirrors the universal wish to return to early emotional states of union that are only granted to us temporarily and provisionally. Of course, your radical experiences of being given up by your mother, torn out of the arms of your aunt, and living in the American diaspora magnify these human themes and put them in stark relief. But, the fact that all of us, even those without these exact traumas, know something of these emotional yearnings make the plight of your characters immediately accessible. Roberta

Dear Mrs. Rachlin, Bijan is very sweet and apparanly true to life. kinda reminds me of Americans' easy going life, and Iranians who take themselvs so serious!!! A combination of both! But, I kinda think, Bijan might change his mind the day after!!! I enjoyed it. Thanks Mrs. Rachlin.

Dear Nahid--I LOVE your short story, Bijan, in Guernica. Your writing is always so beautiful. It's so easy to step into the world you describe... you have such a gift for picking just the right details... Thanks! I enjoyed it so much and can't wait to read more of your new work... Lisa

Dear Nahid, Bijan is a compelling story, and I was immediately absorbed. I felt all Bijan's indecisiveness with him, all his pain, all his desire to be home with his mother and his changed culture. Beautiful. A good window in on the current Iran. Amy

Dear Nahid,
If I hadn't known ahead of time that you will survive your difficult time growing up and then in your early years in the U.S., I would have found, as I read the book, my anxiety for you unbearable. PERSIAN GIRLS is a memoir that reads like the best novels. It is full of drama, hardship and finally triumph. It's an unstoppable read, truly riveting. Thanks for sharing your life story. JB

Dear Nahid, PERSIAN GIRLS is a beautiful, evocative memoir told with tremendous feeling and emotion. You transported me to each time and place in your life and I almost felt that I was sitting on your shoulders. I have about 30 more pages to read, and am doing so ever so slowly because I don't want the story to end. I thank you for sharing your story. This is a lovely, moving book. Sarah

dear Nahid ...
its more than a year that i've listened to Selected shorts and continue the adventures with this great program. I've listened to your "Strangers in house" more and more and i've felt your sensations in words and words of this great short story. I just wanted to thank you and inform you that I had great times feeling and knowing these characters and places in this story. thank you.
your sincerely
Mojtaba

Hi Nahid, I just read your book you wrote about the two girls from Persia, Persian Girls. What a story! I empathize with all the things you have seen .. respect! I'm looking for more books from you, hopefully translated into Dutch. Thanks! It gave me more insight about life in your country. With all due respect! Maybe I travel there once to go! Greetings Amy (Netherlands)

Dear Nahid,
PERSIAN GIRLS is one of the best memoirs I have read. It doesn’t contain tedious analysis of decisions made or blows life has dealt, that is very common in many memoirs. I congratulate you for your gift of sharing your life story without an excess of words and still managing to move the reader deeply. Sally

what a wonderful book, beautiful writing, accessible and very insightful,especially for our American friends. I introduced it to a few of them and their response was "WOW, we didn't know any of these,so glad you shared this with us" Parviz

Hi Nahid, I just read your book you wrote about the two girls from Persia, Persian Girls. What a story! I empathize with all the things you have seen .. respect! I'm looking for more books from you, hopefully translated into Dutch. Thanks! It gave me more insight about life in your country. With all due respect! Maybe I travel there once to go! Greetings Amy (Netherlands)

Dear Nahid, I met you at Purdue and read your memoir. It was stunning. I lent it to my daughter who read it also. Anyhow, best wishes to you. Dana

Dear Ms Rachlin,
I ran across your reference to Persian Girls at your website link from the Authors Guild home page, bought two copies. I gave one to my daughter-in-law, who is the product of a Tehran Shia (father)/Southern Baptist (mother) marriage and had a really traumatic early life (her parents divorced shortly after the overthrow of the Shah).
I loved the book: it was so down-to-earth and believable. It moved easily between two worlds. I wish it were better known. Even though there are quite a few moving books on cultural differences between Iran and US, I hold yours in especially high regard. Elenor

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.

Dear dear khanum Nahid joon,
I read Persian Girls and I must say that I couldnt stop crying during reading it. Im from Afghanistan and the women there have gone through hell (still go) just like Iranians. I love the way you wrote the deatils about yours and others experiences..I wish there was no ending in reading the Persian Girls. Well, I promised myself to read all your books! Im still wondering if Bijan, Pari's son, has contacted you.
Mahfaq bashid,
with love,M

Dear Nahid,
Almost a week ago, I went home and my sister came to me saying “you must read this book! It is going to help you writing your own...I have been reading it since morning and i just finished it...I couldn’t help myself from crying...it is amazing. I took the book and after reading the first few pages and getting hooked, i understood what my sister said and felt. I am talking about “Persian Girls. It is a very-well written book. I loved your style of writing and the rich details that made me feel as if i was there living, watching, and feeling what was going around you. Your experiences and feelings as they were presented in your book are very similar to mine! I love reading and writing. I am going to get your other books to make sure not to miss anything. I wish you and your family more success and above all I wish you true peace.
All the love, Julia,

hi nahid
i love you

Hello Nahid,
I had to write and tell you how much I'm enjoying your book Persian Girls: A Memoir. I'm not done with it quite yet, but I like your writing style, and am very surprised that you had limited English when you came to the U.S. I find your story both interesting and educational. I also find it inspirational regarding the cultural differences you faced, and how you overcame the isolated feeling you had. I plan to read your other book Foreigner in the future.
Best Regards,
Dolly

Dear Ms. Rachlin,
Through your book you have given us a window on your life as well as Iranian culture. Culture gives us the structure we need to deal with life’s everyday problems. I believe cultural change is quite often a chaotic, sometimes violent process in which power- seeking people exploit legitimate yearning for reform for their own, and sometimes quite different political advantage. You and your family have had to endure stresses of political and cultural change. You personally combine uncommon kindness and sensitivity with a great strength of will. Maybe it’s true that adversity builds strength of character. Thank you for writing such a fine book.
Richard

Dear Nahid Joon
(I say Nahid joon because as I read your memoir I feel like i know you as much as I know any of my aunt or uncles; as you know it is a costume in Iran to call every family friend mostly aunt and uncle)
I have been reading your books one after another, and have to admit after the Persian Girls I closed the book with tears in my eyes. I left Iran 7 years ago to go to graduate school here and hasn't been able to go back for a visit yet, due to the hardship of visa and the risk that I might not be able to come back... recently lost the dearest person in my life back in Iran and can't explain how I felt connected and defined in your words and within your life-story... just wanted to thank you for such an amazing work and wished I could thank you in person... Looking forward to meeting you in person one day
Sincerely
Golsa

April 5, 2011.
Salaam Nahid
I just finished reading "Persian Girls". I bought your book, out of curiosity, from the local bookstore in Putrajaya, Malaysia. I'm currently doing my PhD in English Literature and I have been studying memoirs written by Malaysian women.Most of my classmates are from Iran. I have been listening to their stories about Iranian people, culture, food and history over a period of about three years. I have even picked up words and phrases in Persian and use them as often as I can whenever I'm with my Iranian friends. Your book was hard to put down as every page was intriguing and enabled me to feel the pulse of Iranian life, especially those of Iranian women. Thank you for your beautifully written book. Haslina
Malaysia.

Dear Ms. Rachlin, We are a group of students that are doing a seminar on your book Persian Girls. Our goal of the seminar is to convince our audience that they also need to read your book. We truly enjoyed your book and are just wondering what your thoughts were about your upbringing and what impacted you the most. Are there any major facts about it that we must not leave out?
-Thanks for your time. Rachel

Nahid Rachlin March 23 at 9:21am
Dear Rachel, Thank you so much for writing to me and your wonderful feedback on my memoir and also thanks for encouraging others to read it. Well, any new idea I can add is: all the pain and tension I lived with as I was growing up and the tragedy of what happened to Pari, have had the benefit of making me a writer.
In my urgency to give shape to events that were painful, I have found peace within myself. I am also happy that what I write reaches people and perhaps help them achieve understanding of themselves, that help them take the right paths for themselves.

Dear Nahid,
I recommended your book, Persian Girls, to my book club after my American husband read it and strongly recommended it. I stopped reading the various books by Iranian women since many of them are simply self-aggrandizing. Although your story is against the Moslem backdrop, I am sure you realize it is the same even if you are raised as a Christian woman. I am an Iranian Christian woman and found that your experience in every way resonated with me and my experience, both growing up in Iran, and then coming to US for College. Thanks for a truly wonderful book! I will now look forward to reading the other books you have written. Marya

Dear Nahid
I just finished reading your book "Persian Girls" - what an amazing memoir...I could not put it down for a minute. Your writing has so much heart in it and I think that is what attracted me to finish this book so quickly. You write with such deep feelings when you spoke of Pari - it really brought tears to my eyes to hear her story and I am so sorry for your great loss. I hope one day you with have the chance to meet Bijan and share your feelings with each other, I think that would be an incredible healing process for the both of you. Do you have any plans to come to Vancouver, BC in Canada in the future? I would love to meet you...Thank you for sharing your story. You are a brave soul. May peace be with you.
Ritu

Hello
i am a lady 30 years old from qatar i really like your book Persian grils. i read it with arabic translation in the end i cry alot i feel every thing you wrote i search for your name i found this email just want to thank you for this book its the best book i ever read. thanks alot. i hope your life is full of happyness also your daughter.
best wishes, FROM ALANOUD in QATAR

Dear Ms Rachlin,
I am an avid reader and I have literally hunted every book store in my city. I am desperately craving to read your books and especially - Married to Stranger. I live in Delhi (India). I am just hoping that may be you could help me find a bookstore that would carry your books.
Thanks,
Nidhi
Dear Nidhi, Thanks for your interest. I'm not familiar with bookstores in your area. But you can obtain all my books from Amazon. Do you have access to Amazon? If not, maybe a bookstore near you can order the books for you. Best wishes, Nahid

Miss Nahid,
I'm Father Peter, I am from Jordan, I am a priest
I just finished reading your book Persian Girls , I bought your book from the Airport of Beirut in my return to Amman, and I do not know about you before even your books, I wanted just to buy any books to read. Truly your book touched me in the heart and soul, but at the same time your personal experience has been a powerful example to live life with joy and hope and love. I'm sorry what happened to your sister (Pari).I would like to ask you if your book (FOREIGNER), translated in other languages like Italian or French? or any of you anothers books?
thank you very much. God bless you and your family.

Hello, I just finished reading your EXCELLENT book Persian Girls! I read it in two days, I could not put it down. I enjoyed it very much and also recommend it to everyone I know.
Congratulations. Gonzales

Dear Ms. Rachlin:
I just finished reading Persian Girls and I enjoyed it so much. At times I felt I was there in Iran smelling the rose water, walking along the river and going into the bookstore. And when you were taken away from Maryam, my heart broke. I have known depression and so related to Pari and her plight. You are indeed a strong woman to have handled the trials in your life and yet overcome them and through your writing to inspire others. I admire your ability to learn and write so well in English. Learning a second language can be difficult and to become as fluent as you have is a real achievement. Thank you for writing Persian Girls. Sincerely, Dorene

Mrs Rachlin,
I just finished your book, Persian Girls, last night. I found it in a discount bin at a book store and since I love true stories, I had to get it. As I read it, I could see the beauty, the terror, and the pride of your country, at the same time I could feel the shadow looming over your family. I understand where the women were coming from with the double standards, that was okay for a men wasn't for a women, because of my family. I look forward to reading your other books in the future.

I just finished this wonderful book which I had randomly found at the book store of my public library. I just want to thank you for writing such a touching, informative and empowering memoir.
Your new fan, Quynn Ton

Hi, I have just finished your marvelous book Persian Girls! I loved it!Congratulations!!!I got curious about your marriage. You don't give details on the book. I'm a brazilian teacher (Marketing & Communication subjects). My father is Croatian and mum has Italian origin. Hugs,
Cristiane Zovin

I just finished persian girls..I can see myself in your sister Pari...thanks for your great memoir..
shahd..KSA

Dear Mrs.Rachlin,

My name is Nicole, i am a 10th grade honor student. I am currently in the process of writing my English term paper, and your novel "Married to a Stranger" is the starting point of my research. For a portion of my paper i must discuss the author of my novel and their inspiration or reason for writing the book. I have searched online for interviews of you talking about this book but i haven't had any luck. So my question is why did you choose to write this book? Also why did you choose to name the woman that Javad cheats with Pari? Which i read somewhere was the name of your sister. I really enjoyed your book, and cried a lot when Javad cheated on Minou:'( I knew he was going to but i was hoping he would choose not to. I understand that life cannot always have a happy ending but i like to always try and see the good in everyone. So if you could please respond to this and help me Finnish my paper it would be very appreciated. Thank you so much for your time, i hope you receive this comment and get back to me. Have a good night.
Sincerely, Nicole

Dear Nahid,
I just finished reading "Persian Girls" and found it fascinating. I'm intrigued by Middle Eastern culture especially as it affects women. I was rooting for you to convince your father to let you study in the U.S. but I could feel your lonliness and culture shock in the Midwest. The story of Pari is so tragic. I hope you finally connect with your nephew Bijan so you can tell him how much his mother longed to be with him. I look forward to reading one of your other books.


Dear Nahid-
I wanted to let you know how much I've enjoyed reading your book Persian Girls and I hope to read more of your books. I found your book very moving and couldn't put it down. I especially liked the portrayal of the sisters and how you conveyed so much of the culture of Iran and the difficulties you faced. You showed great courage and love in your words.
Best wishes, Lena

Salaam Khanoum Rachlin,
I am currently reading Persian Girls for the third or fourth time, and I am moved every time I read it. Coming from a Bangladeshi American Muslim Christian background, I can empathize with you in many respects and struggles, and I am especially moved by Pari, as many of my own family members have become victim to the same fate, although a bit less dramatic, as your own sister. I was wanting to know if you would ever be coming back to UT, and if so, when? I would really like to meet you and talk to you and attend one of your readings and lectures. Also, I was wanting to know if up to this point, you know what happened to Pari's beloved son Bijan? I hope this email reaches you in good spirits and good health. I look forward to hearing from you.
Khoda Hafez, Carmen


Mrs Rachlin, I've just read Persian girls in Dutch and I was deeply moved by the it. I wonder if Maryam and Mohtaram are still alive and if so how old they are now.
Greetings from Belgium. Ludgard

Dear Mrs Nahid,

i don't know if you are going to read this letter or not but i am really happy that i have got your e-mail and i saw many photoes of you on the net. I finished reading "Persian Girls" yesterday night and to say the truth,you took me to your world,to Iran,to USA,to your family house, to Mariam and Mohtaram.I saw Bari and Manija. You are a great writer and this is a great story.is it a real one really? it is a great pleasure for me to be one of your friends. i didn't sleep yesterday because i was thinking about this story and the people who were talking about them. Do you speak arabic? do you still looking for Bari's son or he is not real?i wish i can meet you and sit with you. looking forward to hear from you.
Yara Jarkas
Dubai,UAE

Dear Nahid Salam,
I read your book Persian Girls in English. Is this book traslated in farsi ? I like to know if you have been able to contact Bijan Pari's Son? I think about him and pray for a very happy life for him. I left Iran years ago to get my education in US. I am always concern about women of Iran like you except I don't have your talents. I visit Iran whenever I can and try to stay in touch with my roots in terms of a persian woman who has come a long way. I know I am
lucky to live here in some aspects and I hope I can take an advatage of it. I admire you that you have lived here for so long and you have not forgotten your origin. I love reading more of your books and recommending to my friends. Thank you for being a role model and I hope I will meet you in person. Sincerely,
Manzar

Nahid,
Got hooked by "Persian Girls" and couldn't put it down. Have to know...have you found Bijan? Internet? Facebook?
Carmen
Dear Carmen, thanks. Yes, I have found him!

Dear Ms. Rachlin,
I read you book with much interest. I couldn't stop reading, it all felt so close and it is written so good. You are a strong woman which had done many things all alone.
Unfortunately our library hasn't much of your books so I only can read a few of them.
Wish you the best. Kind Regards, Shakti. (the Netherlands).

Dear Shakti, Thank you so much for writing to me. I'm so happy you liked it. Persian Girls in the only one among my books that has been translated into Dutch. The others are only available in English. Best wishes, Nahid

Hello Mrs.Rachlin
I'm 19 years old and i come from Almelo, the Netherlands. Last week I read your book Two girls from Persia ( in dutch ofcourse) and it was a nice story. The thing I liked the most is that it's not a fiction story, you also write all the sad things that happend but unfortunately that’s life and that’s what keep people reading because they feel connected to the persons in the book. I want to tell you that i'm really impressed about your style of writing and i hope you understand my email because I think my english is not very good. I want to read more books from you but I can't find it in our library. I hope i find one of you're books soon, this is the first time I want to read a book off the same writer. And I want to tell you I have much respect for you how you lived your life in Iran and telling about it in your books.
Yours Sincerely, Sandra

Dear Nahid, I just finished reading Persian Girls two days ago. It is amazing; very honest and touching. I am from Saudi Arabia, so I know what you are talking about. I saw alot of myself in Nahid (the character). I've not published my poetry, because I couldn't. The last poem I wrote was three years ago, interestingly its title was "Who Picks Me Up." I am addictied to movies and literature, this is how I came across your amazing novel. I was an unwanted child too, the 6th daughter for my mother and the 10th for my father. My MA project was about Saudi women in american contemporary fiction... and yes, my family doesnt know about my topic, Thank God im the only person speaking English in my family. I would like to thank you for the beautiful moments your novel gave to me-- for some reason, a woman feels less sad when she knows that "she is not the only one"!!!

Dear Nahid,
I just finished reading "Persian Girls" and found it fascinating. I'm intrigued by Middle Eastern culture especially as it affects women. I was rooting for you to convince your father to let you study in the U.S. but I could feel your lonliness and culture shock in the Midwest. The story of Pari is so tragic. I hope you finally connect with your nephew Bijan so you can tell him how much his mother longed to be with him. I look forward to reading one of your other books.

Dear Ms. Rachlin:
I just finished reading Persian Girls and I enjoyed it so much. At times I felt I was there in Iran smelling the rose water, walking along the river and going into the bookstore. And when you were taken away from Maryam, my heart broke. I have known depression and so related to Pari and her plight. You are indeed a strong woman to have handled the trials in your life and yet overcome them and through your writing to inspire others. I admire your ability to learn and write so well in English. Learning a second language can be difficult and to become as fluent as you have is a real achievement. Thank you for writing Persian Girls. Sincerely, Dorene

hi nahid
im shather alotaibi i'm a 17 year old girl from kuwait and i really rally love all of your books you're just great i'm so sorry for what happened to pari she's my favorite character ever -
my email is : sowhat010@windowslive.com
please write me back i rally want to share some thoughts with you
ps: say hi to laila for me

Salaam Nahid
i'm Fatima from Saudi Arabia , I speak English a little but I want to say some words for you ' I read PERSIAN GIRLS in Arabic, I liked it so much, you are a good writer masha'a Allah, I Cried when I finished it , I don't have sisters and I was affected by your relationship with your sister Pari, I prayed for you a long time, and I wish for you and Layla a good life
Can you understand or speak Arabic ?
Thank you very much my dear. Fatima

Nahid-
I was so moved by your book. I just finished it and wonder if you have ever tracked down Bijan or found out anything more about the death of Pari?
Your writing style is magnificent and the way you build narrative with such powerful reflections and imagery has inspired me in writing my novel.
Manijeh

Dear Nahid Rachlin
I couldn't put PERSIAN GIRLS down and was up well into 2:30 reading it. The book was refreshing in its depth, honesty and for all that you shared. Ehsan

Dear Nahid,
Almost two weeks ago, I went home after work and my sister Salma came to me saying “you must read this book! It is going to help you writing your own...I have been reading it since morning and i just finished it...I couldn’t help myself from crying...it is amazing. I took the book and after reading the first few pages and getting hooked, i understood what my sister said and felt. I am talking about “Persian Girls,” which i read in Arabic. It is a very-well written book. I loved your style of writing and the rich details that made me feel as if i was there living, watching, and feeling what was going around you. Your experiences and feelings as they were presented in your book are very similar to mine! I love reading and writing. I am going to get your books in English to make sure not to miss anything in translation. I wish you and your family more success and above all I wish you true peace.
All the love, Julia,

Dear Ms. Rachlin:
Last month, I received your invitation to the reading of your short story at Getty Museum. Despite living in San Diego, I decided to attend, hoping to finally meet you! I had brought my 1978 copy of The Foreigner for your autograph and thought you's get a kick out of seeing my then toddler's doodles on the first page, for which she was duly punished! (She is now a lawyer.)A writer myself, I enjoy receiving occasional notes from you. Hope we shall meet someday. Please let me know if/when you are in the area.
Best, always, Zohreh Ghahremani (Zoe)

Dear Zoe, I was doing a lot of traveling around that time, so I decided to skip going to LA. Maybe we'll get a chance to meet at another occasion. Would have been fun to see my first novel with your daughter's doodles on it! Good luck with your own writing. Nahid

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

Dear Ms. Rachlin, I live in Forney TX, a small community 25 miles east of Dallas. I bought your book at Borders as a Christmas gift for my sister in law, but I decided to keep it for myself and instead gave her something else. Your story is such an inspiration. I learned so much about your culture and government. It made me think of an Iranian friend whom I met while working at a hospital in Tulsa during the late 1980s She was going thru medical school and family practice residency at the same hospital.. As a divorcee, with a small son to care for, and her parents living in Tehran, you know she went thru some agony worrying about them and missing them. We talked often, but only at work because her schedule was pretty demanding. Afsar was an amazing person and I have fond memories of her.
Thank you for sharing your story. I wish you happiness and peace in your life.
Sincerely, Gloria

Dear Nahid,
I read your book the persian girls.
I agree with you that the Muslim woman should have the freedom to decide her future and choose her life mate. But, if you feel sorry for not being connected to your home-land, that is because you chose not to. To be part of Iran, you have to accept the Islamic Laws. Accepting boys to kiss and touch you when you were young are clear signs that you do NOT want to be part of Iran...

Dear Nahid,
I have just finished reading your book in Arabic. I found it very interesting. Few comments:
*The title in Arabic is misleading it translate to "THE Iranian girls".
*I would keep the titles of key figures, such as Grand Ayatollah Khomaini.
*I am not sure I would mention the relation between the mother and the jewlery shop keeper.

Regards,
Ramzy AlZayer

My name is Soroush Fetkovich and would love to talk to you if it's possible . Just finished reading your book , i couldn't put it down , it took me back to all those memories of past I also struggle with my past , in some ways similar to my life only mine much more dramatic and heart breaking , my dream always been to writ a book about my life ,just don't want any one to know who i am , what i have gone through during my childhood in Iran and after ward a broad . unlike you i am not a professional writer even though have always carried a very strong passion for it and used to write my journal every day and then it stopped. With kind regards, Soroush

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

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