The Heartbeat of Iran: Real Voices Of A Country and Its People

Iranian by birth, American by adoption, Kangarlou is a journalist focused on political and refugee issues in the Middle East. The author aims to go beyond the hostilities that foster stereotypes defining Iran and the United States to present the humanity and creativity that she sees in her homeland. In this debut, she introduces 24 individuals of different ages and classes, from cities such as Tehran to other parts of the country. She focuses on their stories, using many of their own words to present a portrait of resilient, optimistic people with strong family ties, in sharp contrast to the way that Iran is often portrayed in the press. Emphasizing the warmth and individuality of many who reject or ignore their government’s rigid controls, Kangarlou shows communities with strong traditions and an active interest societies throughout the rest of the world. While stressing the humanity and personality of her subjects, she integrates information about the political, cultural, artistic and religious history of Iran, the achievements of centuries and the impact of the 1979 revolution.