Iran: A Very Short Introduction (Very Short Introductions) Illustrated Edition

I read this on the flight to Iran during my first visit and it gave a good bird's eye view of the society I was about to see. I plan to re-read it if I ever visit Iran again.

This work is a bit inaccurate in its description of recent (past 200 years) Iranian political aspirations. The role of political interference is underplayed in order to leave all at the doorstep of responsibility for one's own determination. However, Iran actually represents one of those extreme cases of interference wherein deceptive practices sabotaged future of multiple generations. This must be firmly researched and understood for anyone to truly know the present character of Iran and Iranians. Also, the line about khatami's allowance for press "freedom" having not been witnessed since 1906 is an appallingly false statement. Press was fully monitored during his tenure and many punished if deviated from what was carefully structured as a seemingly open press.

Fascinating and enriched historical summary condensed into a quick easy read with eloquent and precise prose. Professor Ansari’s book will serve as a great intro to anyone who needs a crash course on Iranian history.

a good shot overview

Well-written, succinct, balanced and enjoyable to read for a Iran-history novice like me

One of the best I have read on Iran. Very informative and well put together for its size. The book does a great job to get you interested to want to know more about the events it covers.

Lack of atimeline made it very difficult to follow. Recent history guided over and zero description of current political structure? It is a total failure.

Print too small. Suggest you buy a history of Iran before reading this book.